Attach a Domain & Create Branded Short Links
What is a branded short link?
A branded short link, sometimes called a vanity link, is a short, customized, branded tracking link that redirects to another URL.
Linkly is a URL shortener for marketers, and a core feature is the ability to create branded short links on your domain.
We recommend all users attach a domain. It is free to do, and improves both the click-through rate and reliability of shortened tracking links.
Why use branded short links?
- Improved click-through rates, as links include your domain & brand. Users can see where they’re going before they click.
- Improved brand awareness - users will see your brand even if they don’t click.
- Ability to build custom audiences with retargeting pixels, such as Meta Pixel & X Tailored Audiences.
- Detailed metrics & tracking for your links.
- Ability to change the destination after the link has been shared.
- Never have your link caught out by a spam filter.
- Links stay on your domain, so you can leave Linkly and migrate to a competitor without interruption.
- Add your logo as a favicon to appear in browser tabs when people visit your links. Learn more about domain favicons.
You can use your own domain to create branded short links.
Creating Branded URLs
In order to use a custom domain, you must: (1) Own the domain you want to use, and (2) Be able to adjust the domain's DNS settings.
Purchase a domain if necessary
You can purchase a managed domain from Linkly, or alternatively from any other domain provider, and attach it in the next step.
Attach your domain to Linkly
These instructions are presented inside Linkly. Save time and use the wizard.
- Click Domains in the left-hand menu.
- Click + Add a Domain.
- Type in the domain you want to use. You can use a subdomain, for example, link.mydomain.com, or the root domain mydomain.com.
- Follow the wizard instructions to set up your DNS records.
DNS Record Setup
Choose the appropriate setup based on whether you're using a subdomain or root domain.
For Subdomains (e.g. link.mydomain.com)
Use this if you already have a website on your domain. Go to your domain's DNS settings and add a CNAME record. Most providers have two fields, usually labelled Name and Value.
| Type | Host/Name | Content/Value/Data | Proxy Status (Cloudflare only) | TTL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNAME | link | domains.linklyhq.com. | DNS only | 600 |
Domain provider specific instructions: NameCheap, GoDaddy, Squarespace
For Root Domains (e.g. mydomain.com)
Use this if you aren't using the domain for a website. Set up the following DNS record at your domain provider.
| Type | Host/Name | Content/Value/Data | Proxy Status (Cloudflare only) | TTL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | @ | 34.133.74.21 | DNS only | 600 |
Wait for DNS and SSL activation
You'll see DNS Active when Linkly detects the right DNS settings. Linkly will generate an SSL certificate, which takes about 20 minutes, and then finally you'll see SSL Active. After that, your domain will be ready for use.
How to Create a Branded Tracking Link with your Domain
Click Create New Link from the menu.
Add a Nickname, Destination, and any other parameters you want for the link.
Click Custom domain & URL in the link form.
If you've attached your domain correctly, this section should already be visible.
Choose your domain from the dropdown.
Add a URL suffix for the domain
For example /awesome-product.
These need to begin with a /, be unique for this domain, and only contain characters you would find in a URL.
Press Random to auto-generate a short link URL.
You can also use just / for the naked domain without a suffix - i.e. yourdomain.com.
Click Save Link to save and test your link.
How to Create a Default Redirect for your Domain
You can also use domains without a suffix: mydomain.com/suffix. This means that any visitors to mydomain.com will go to that Linkly link. Follow the domain redirect instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I see a security warning on my domain?
It takes around 20-30 minutes to set up an SSL certificate for a domain, which is needed for a secure connection.
If this time has passed, let us know and we’ll take a look.
I cannot setup my domain’s DNS settings. Can you help?
Setting up domains can be tricky, with differing providers having differing set ups.
If you're having trouble, send us a message and we'll try to set it up for you for free.
Can I attach a domain to multiple workspaces?
Domains are uniquely attached to workspaces, so you’ll need to use a different domain or subdomain for each workspace.
The full URLs, i.e. domain.com/suffix, must be unique.
How do I redirect the root of the domain?
Use / as the suffix to capture users to the naked domain (e.g. mydomain.com).
See the domain redirect guide for setup details.
How do I redirect 404/not found URLs on my domain?
Where a user visits a suffix that doesn’t exist, they’ll be redirected to the root of the domain.
Our corporate IT doesn’t allow us to attach a domain. What can we do?
Generally speaking, marketing teams will purchase a look-a-like domain that they manage. This is easier and more secure.
Do I have to use the 'link' subdomain?
You can use anything you like.
Linkly will detect whatever variant, as long as you enter yoursubdomain.yourdomain.com in the 'Add domain' field.
If you have trouble, let us know and we'll help you get it attached.
How much does it cost to attach a domain?
Attaching domains is free on Linkly, and we strongly encourage it for best results.
How many domains can I add?
You can attach up to 50 domains/subdomains to a workspace.
If you have a use case that requires more, please contact us to see if we can adjust your limits.
Where do I find my domain's DNS settings?
This is usually in the place where you bought your domain.