Domain propagation, also known as DNS propagation, refers to the time it takes for DNS (Domain Name System) changes, such as updating nameservers or changing web hosting, to be reflected universally across the internet.

During the propagation period, DNS changes may not be immediately visible to all users worldwide. This delay occurs because DNS information is cached by DNS servers across the internet, and it takes time for these cached records to expire and be updated with the new information.

As a result, during propagation, users may experience inconsistency in accessing your website. Some users may see the old website, while others may see the new one, depending on whether their DNS resolver has updated to reflect the recent changes.

Website owners need to understand domain propagation and its potential impact to set proper expectations for their users. While propagation typically takes anywhere from a few hours to 48 hours to complete, it's essential to note that this timeframe can vary depending on factors such as DNS provider policies and TTL (Time To Live) settings configured for DNS records.

Overall, understanding domain propagation is crucial for website owners to anticipate potential downtime or inconsistencies in website accessibility during DNS changes and to effectively communicate these changes to their users.