Guide to Getting Rid of Cloudflare: Step-by-Step Methods for Domain Owners

Introduction to Cloudflare Removal

Cloudflare is a powerful tool for website protection and performance, but sometimes users might need to remove it for various reasons. Whether you are transitioning to a new hosting provider, simplifying your domain management, or facing specific technical issues, this article will guide you through the different methods to get rid of Cloudflare - whether by fully removing it or just disabling its services. Let's dive into the detailed steps for each method.

Deleting Your Cloudflare Account

For users who want to completely remove Cloudflare from their profile or domain, there is a straightforward process to do so. However, ensure this is the intended action as it will also terminate your Cloudflare account associated with your email.

Log in to the Cloudflare Dashboard

First, log in to your Cloudflare dashboard by clicking on the external link provided.

Navigate to My Profile

Once logged in, select 'My Profile' to manage your account details.

Initiate Account Deletion

Select the option to 'Delete this user'.

Note: A series of prompts will follow, guiding you through the process of account deletion. Proceed with caution as this action is irreversible.

Alternative Methods for Caching/CDN and DNS Only

Disabling Cloudflare Caching and CDN

If you want to retain the benefits of Cloudflare's DNS services while disabling its caching and CDN features, this is the method for you.

Access DNS Page

Log in to your Cloudflare dashboard and navigate to the DNS page. This page provides control over your domain's DNS settings.

Turn Off Proxying

Scroll down to the 'Proxied' setting and turn it off. This action disables Cloudflare's caching and CDN services for your site, while allowing it to continue managing your DNS.

Note: Disabling proxying may have some changes in performance and caching strategies, so consider these implications before making any changes.

Full Removal via Nameserver Change

For a more complete solution, changing the nameservers of your domain can remove Cloudflare automatically after a 30-day period. This is the easiest method for complete removal, but it requires coordination with your domain registrar.

Point Nameservers Back to Registrar

Log into your domain registrar’s control panel and change the nameservers to the ones provided by your web hosting or server provider.

Note: After making the nameserver change, wait for the propagation to go through, which typically takes between 24 to 48 hours.

Export and Re-import Records

Before making the nameserver change, export any custom DNS records such as CNAME, TXT, and A records. After removing Cloudflare, you can re-import these records into your domain registrar to maintain functionality.

Pinpoint A Record to Hosting IP

Ensure that your A record is pointing to the IP address of your host, which can often be done within the hosting control panel.

Removing a Domain from Cloudflare via Dashboard

For users who accidentally added a domain to Cloudflare and want to remove it, the process is relatively simple.

Log in to Dashboard and Go to Site Page

Log in to your Cloudflare dashboard, then navigate to the page for your site. Scroll to the bottom where you will find the option to 'remove domain' or 'unregister'.

Proceed with Removal

Once you click the 'remove domain' button, the Cloudflare dashboard will prompt you to confirm the action, effectively unregistering the domain from Cloudflare's CDN.

Note: This does not delete your Cloudflare account; you can still manage other domains from the same account if needed.

Changing DNS Settings

An alternative method to remove Cloudflare involves changing the DNS settings directly on your domain. This process is particularly useful if you want to keep Cloudflare's DNS services but remove its caching and CDN.

Point DNS Nameservers Back to Registrar

Follow the steps to point your DNS nameservers back to your original domain registrar. This change will remove Cloudflare’s influence on your domain, allowing your custom hosting or server provider to take over.

Note: After changing the nameservers, monitor the propagation period and double-check the DNS records to ensure all is running smoothly.

Conclusion

Getting rid of Cloudflare can be an important decision for domain owners looking to simplify their web infrastructure or optimize for specific needs. Whether you choose to fully delete your account, disable just the caching features, or remove Cloudflare completely by changing nameservers, you now have the step-by-step guidance to make the transition.

Remember, careful planning and execution are key to a smooth transition. If you encounter any specific issues or errors during the process, don't hesitate to consult additional resources or reach out to customer support for assistance.