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How to fix the error: Sorry, a DNS entry already exists, please delete it first (from all servers in the dns cluster)

Ella McMorran
Written by
Ella McMorran

When trying to add a new domain in WHM, you may get an error like the one listed below:

Example

Account Creation Status: failed Sorry, a DNS entry for domainname.com already exists, please delete it first (from all servers in the dns cluster)

This means that a DNS zone file already exists for this domain. To resolve the issue, please follow the steps listed below.

Step 1: Terminate the Account in WHM

To remove the account from WHM:

  1. Go to Account Functions > Terminate an Account.
  2. Select account to terminate.
  3. In the box, type: I understand this will irrevocably remove all the accounts that have been checked.
  4. Click Destroy Selected Accounts.

When WHM has completely removed the account, the following confirmation message will appear on the bottom of the screen: All Account Terminations Complete!

In some cases, you may receive an error message like the one listed below:

Example

Sorry, yourdomain.com cannot be removed because it is still configured for use on an active account. Please remove the domain from the account by deleting the subdomain, addon domain, parked domain, or account it is linked to. If all else fails, remove it from httpd.conf.

Step 2: Confirm DNS Entry for the Domain has been Removed

Now, you will want to confirm that the DNS entry has been removed. To do so, go to DNS Functions > Delete a DNS Zone area in WHM. If the domain name is not listed, you can re-attempt the account creation.

If the DNS zone is still listed:

  1. Click on the domain name you wish to remove.
  2. Click Delete.
  3. On the next page, click Delete to confirm.

After completing the steps above, you can re-attempt the account creation.