Choose a sub-server for separate website content under an existing Virtualmin owner, or an alias when another domain should represent the same existing site. The choice affects ownership and content mapping, not just the hostname spelling.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Information to have ready
Decide who should administer the site and whether it needs a separate isolation boundary. Record the parent domain and existing document roots. A subdomain such as shop.example.com can be a top-level virtual server when separate ownership is required; its DNS shape does not force one account type.
01 Choose a sub-server or alias in Virtualmin
- Select the intended parent virtual server and choose Create Virtual Server. Review the available sub-server and alias choices.
- For an independent site under the same owner, choose a sub-server and enter its domain. Select the required website, database, mail or DNS features within the owner limits.
- For the same content under another name, choose an alias of the correct existing server. Review the website and mail effects before creating it; an alias is not an empty independent application directory.
- Save and inspect the generated content paths and owner context. Do not treat a sub-server as an independent customer security boundary because it remains under its parent administration.
- Publish the required DNS records and ensure certificates cover every hostname you intend to serve. Decide whether an alias should redirect visitors to one canonical website address.
- Test the new name and the parent site, then verify backup coverage and any application URL settings.
Should unrelated customers share a sub-server owner?
Usually they should have separate top-level owners when they need independent access and accountability. A convenient shared login is not equivalent to separate account isolation.
Confirm the expected result
For a sub-server, confirm its content is distinct and its administrator scope is intentional. For an alias, verify the expected content or canonical redirect and appropriate mail behaviour. Test HTTPS by hostname rather than by the server IP alone.
Troubleshoot unexpected results
If the new name shows unexpected content, inspect the selected type and target before moving files. Changing an alias into an independent website may require a supported conversion and new application configuration. Back up the related servers before restructuring an active account.