How to Connect a Second Domain to a Specific Directory in Plesk

Overview

If you manage multiple domains single hosting account setups, you can easily host an add secondary domain Plesk entry and map it directly to a specific folder or subfolder directory within your server storage.

Configuring a Plesk document root change allows you to connect second domain to folder paths or map domain to directory locations. This is commonly used when running multiple independent websites, micro-sites, or web applications on one hosting plan without paying for separate subscriptions. Depending on your hosting tier, this can be handled via self-service using the action dropdown add domain feature or with the assistance of a Live Support Agent.

Understanding the Possibilities

When linking a second domain to a folder in Plesk, you have three primary configuration paths:

1. Standalone Website (Add-On Domain): Uses multiple domains single hosting capabilities to add a secondary domain to your subscription and point it to a dedicated subfolder (e.g., /httpdocs/domain2 or /domain2.com). It functions as an independent site with its own files, SSL, and email accounts.

2. Domain Alias (Pointing to Primary Site): Points a secondary domain name to the exact same directory as your main website (e.g., /httpdocs) so both domains load identical content.

3. Subdomain Mapping: Maps a third-level domain (e.g., shop.example.com) to a custom Plesk webspace document root directory.

Self-Service Steps (How to Connect a Domain to a Directory)

Step 1: Add the Domain to Your Hosting Package

To attach a new domain to your hosting package, use the account portal navigation:

1. Log into your account dashboard and navigate to Hosting.

2. Locate your hosting package. Beside the Control Panel button, click the Action button to open the dropdown menu.

3. From the options in the action dropdown add domain menu, select Add Domain.

Step 2: Configure or Change the Directory Folder in Plesk

Once the domain has been added to your hosting package:

1. Click the Control Panel button to open Plesk.

2. Go to Websites & Domains.

3. Locate your secondary domain name and click Hosting Settings.

4. In the Plesk webspace document root field, perform your Plesk document root change by entering the exact folder path where your website files reside (for example: /yoursecondsite.com or /httpdocs/subfolder).

5. Click Apply or OK to save changes to connect second domain to folder.

Important DNS Reminder: Ensure the secondary domain's DNS A-Record or Nameservers are pointed to your hosting server's IP address so traffic routes to Plesk properly.

When to Contact Live Support

Connect directly with a Live Agent if:

• Your hosting plan reaches its maximum domain limit and you need to upgrade your package to add secondary domain Plesk entries.

• You are unsure of the correct file path structure to map domain to directory locations for your application framework.

• You encounter server permission errors when saving a Plesk document root change.