Custom Domains
What is a Custom Domain?
When you deploy your site, it gets a default URL like your-project.pages.dev or your-project.vercel.app. A custom domain lets you use your own address like www.mybusiness.com instead. This makes your site look professional and easier to remember.
How to Connect Your Domain
After deploying your project, go to your hosting platform's dashboard (Cloudflare, Vercel, or Netlify). Navigate to the project settings and find the Domains section. Click 'Add Domain' and enter your domain name. The platform will provide you with DNS records to configure.
DNS Configuration
You need to add a CNAME record in your domain registrar's DNS settings. Point your domain (or subdomain) to the platform's address: • Cloudflare Pages: your-project.pages.dev • Vercel: cname.vercel-dns.com • Netlify: your-site.netlify.app For root domains (without www), some platforms require an A record or use ALIAS/ANAME records. Check your platform's documentation for specific values.
Verifying Domain Ownership
After adding your domain, the platform needs to verify you own it. This usually happens automatically once DNS records propagate (can take up to 48 hours, but usually within minutes). Some platforms may ask you to add a TXT record for verification. Check the domain status in your platform dashboard — it will show 'Pending' then 'Active' once verified.
SSL Certificates
All three platforms (Cloudflare, Vercel, Netlify) provide free SSL certificates automatically. Once your domain is verified and DNS has propagated, an SSL certificate is issued and your site is accessible via HTTPS. No manual configuration needed — the platform handles certificate generation, renewal, and installation.