Help guide · 8 minutes
How to connect a custom domain to GoTinyURL
Point a domain or subdomain at GoTinyURL with one DNS record, add it in the app, wait for activation and create branded short links on it.
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The steps at a glance
Choose the domain or subdomain
A subdomain such as go.yourbrand.com is the easiest. A separate short domain works too.
Copy the DNS target from the app
In the app open Domains, then Connect domain. The screen shows the A record IP and the CNAME target to use.
Add the record at your DNS host
Create a CNAME for a subdomain, or an A record for a root domain, with the value from the app.
Add the domain in GoTinyURL
Enter the host name and, optionally, where the bare domain and unknown back-halves should go. Save.
Wait for activation, then test
The domain shows as Pending until DNS has propagated and our team activates it, normally within one business day. Then create a test link on it.
A custom domain puts your short links and bio pages on an address you own, such as go.yourbrand.com/spring. You need access to your domain’s DNS settings, usually at your registrar or at Cloudflare.
Before you start
- Decide on the name. A subdomain (
go.yourbrand.com,links.yourbrand.com) does not affect your website or email and is the quickest option. A separate short domain is worth it if you print or say links often. Our guide to choosing a short domain helps. - Make sure the subdomain is not already in use for something else.
Step 1: get the DNS values from the app
Sign in at app.gotinyurl.com, open Domains and choose Connect domain. The screen tells you the record to create: an A record pointing to an IP address, or a CNAME pointing to a host name.
Step 2: add the record at your DNS host
| You are connecting | Record type | Name / host | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| A subdomain, e.g. go.yourbrand.com | CNAME | go | The CNAME target shown in the app |
| A root domain, e.g. ybrnd.co | A | @ | The IP address shown in the app |
Save the record. Leave the TTL at its default.
Step 3: add the domain in GoTinyURL
Back on the Connect domain screen, enter the host name exactly, without https://. Optionally set:
- Index URL: where people go if they open the bare domain.
- Not-found URL: where mistyped back-halves go instead of an error.
Save. The domain appears in your list with the status Pending.
Step 4: wait for DNS and activation
Two things need to happen: the DNS change has to reach the internet (often minutes, up to 48 hours) and our team activates the domain, normally within one business day. You will see the status change from Pending when it is ready.
Step 5: create a test link
Create a short link, choose your new domain from the domain dropdown, and open it on your phone. If it redirects, you are done. Every new link, QR code and bio page can now use it.
Troubleshooting
- The domain stays Pending for more than a business day: check the record with a DNS lookup tool, then contact us with the domain name.
- Links show a certificate warning: tell us; HTTPS for custom domains is set up during activation.
- Behind Cloudflare and not working: switch the record to DNS only (grey cloud).
FAQ
Common questions
Q01Should I use a CNAME or an A record?
Use a CNAME for a subdomain such as go.yourbrand.com. Use an A record for a root domain such as ybrnd.co, because most DNS hosts do not allow a CNAME at the root.
Q02Where do I find the exact values?
On the Connect domain screen in the app. It shows both the IP for an A record and the host for a CNAME.
Q03Why does my domain say Pending?
New domains are checked and activated by our team, normally within one business day, once DNS points at GoTinyURL. If it has been longer, contact us with the domain name.
Q04Will this affect my email?
No. You only change the record for the subdomain or domain you use for links. Your MX records and website are untouched.
Q05Can I use Cloudflare?
Yes. Add the record in Cloudflare's DNS tab. If links do not work, try setting the record to DNS only (grey cloud) so traffic reaches GoTinyURL directly.
Q06How many domains can I add?
It depends on your plan: 1 on Free and Starter, 5 on Pro, 25 on Business, and up to 40 on lifetime tiers.
Q07What happens if my domain expires?
Every link on it stops working. Turn on auto-renew at your registrar.
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More help
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