How to Set Up A DNS Clusters in WHM -

Prerequisites

Have root access to each server.
Ensure all servers in the cluster are running cPanel/WHM.
Verify network connectivity between the servers.
Decide on the DNS roles for each server (e.g., primary, secondary, standalone).

Step 1: Log in to WHM either with the root account. Normally you will use one of the URLs below; #

http://your_server_ip:2087

https://your_server_hostname:2087

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Step 2: Enable the DNS Cluster Feature #

Log in to WHM on the primary server.
Navigate to Home > Clusters > DNS Cluster.
Click Enable DNS Clustering.
Save the changes.

Step 3: Add Servers to the Cluster #

Go to Home > Clusters > DNS Cluster in WHM.

Under Manage DNS Cluster, click Add a new server.

Enter the following details:
- Remote server key: Generate the key from the remote server (explained below).
- Server type: Select the server type (e.g., cPanel).
- IP address: Enter the IP address of the remote server.
- DNS role: Choose the role for the server:
  - Standalone: Does not sync with others.
  - Synchronize Changes: Syncs changes to this server.
  - Write-Only: Changes are sent to this server but not synced back.

Test the connection and click Submit.

Step 4: Generate the Remote Access Key #

On the remote server:

Log in to WHM.
Navigate to Home > Clusters > Remote Access Key.
Copy the key provided.
Paste this key into the Remote server key field on the primary server.

Step 5: Configure Synchronization Settings #

On the primary server, go to Home > Clusters > DNS Cluster.
For each server in the cluster, ensure the synchronization settings align with your requirements:
- Enable DNS Synchronization if needed.
- Select the desired role (Synchronize Changes or Write-Only).

Step 6: Verify Cluster Functionality #

Create a test DNS zone on one server and check if it synchronizes across the cluster.
Use tools like dig or nslookup to ensure DNS records resolve properly from different servers.

Step 7: Monitor and Maintain the Cluster #

Regularly check the cluster status in Home > Clusters > DNS Cluster.
Keep servers updated and ensure proper communication between nodes.

Conclusion #

Setting up a DNS cluster in WHM improves DNS redundancy, ensures faster resolutions, and reduces downtime risks. By configuring synchronization properly, you can create a robust DNS infrastructure for your hosting environment.