When creating short links for marketing campaigns, using a custom domain not only enhances brand recognition but can also significantly improve click-through rates. At Binder, we offer a flexible approach to custom domains, providing one of the most generous limits in the industry.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to add a custom domain to your Binder workspace, ensuring your marketing links are both effective and on-brand.
Prerequisites
Before getting started, you’ll need:
- A Binder account. If you don’t have one yet, you can sign up here.
- A domain name. If you don’t own one yet, you can purchase it from registrars like Namecheap, GoDaddy, Cloudflare, or Porkbun.
Step 1: Add a Custom Domain
Once you have your custom domain, follow these steps to add it to your Binder workspace:
1. Navigate to your Binder settings's page. You’ll find this in the top right menu, your profile option.
2. Click on the Settings button.
3. Here you can will have multiple options in the left menu, click on 'Domains'.
3. Here you need to enter the domain you want to add in Binder and click 'Add Domain.'
Configure DNS Settings
Once your domain is added, Binder will generate a DNS record that you’ll need to configure with your domain registrar.
Step 2a: Adding an Apex Domain
For an apex domain (e.g., example.com), add an A record with the following details:
- Name: @ (or leave it blank)
- Value: 76.76.21.21
- TTL: 86400 (or the highest possible value)
Step 2b: Adding a CName
For subdomains (e.g., go.example.com), you’ll need to create a CNAME record with the following details:
- Name: go (or another subdomain of your choice)
- Value: cname.binder.so
- TTL: 86400
⚠️ We recommend avoiding the www subdomain since it automatically redirects to the apex domain. Instead, use subdomains like:
- go.example.com
- try.example.com
- links.example.com
If you're using Cloudflare as your DNS provider, you may need additional configuration steps to ensure everything works smoothly.
Step 3: Verify Domain Ownership
This step applies if you're adding a domain currently used on Vercel.
Since Binder.so utilizes Vercel as the DNS provider, you'll need to verify ownership of the domain before adding it to your Binder workspace.
How to Verify Domain Ownership on Binder.so:
1. Add a TXT record with the following values:
- Name: _vercel
- Value: vc-domain-verify=go.yourdomain.com... (This value will be provided in your Binder dashboard)
How to use the configured Custom Domain:
1. Upload Your Files: After configuring your custom domain, head to the 'Files' section or your Data Room and upload the necessary files.
2. Create a Shareable Link: For each uploaded file, click on 'Create New Link.' If you're looking to update an existing file, either create a separate new link by clicking '+ New Link' or edit the existing one by selecting 'Edit Link Settings' from the (...) menu.
3. Select Your Custom Domain: Here in the feature menu, you'll find the option 'Select a Verified Custom Domain' just below the group selection. Open the dropdown to choose the custom domain you've previously added to Bindeer keep your branding consistent across all file shares.
4. Customize Access & Integrations: With your custom domain selected, fine-tune the sharing experience by choosing Binder’s advanced multiple access features and integrations. Once you’ve finalized your settings, click 'Create New Link,' and your custom, branded shareable link will be automatically copied to your clipboard—ready to share securely.
This process gives you full control over file sharing while promoting your brand through a custom domain and streamlined user access.
How Long Until the Domain is Active?
DNS configuration can take anywhere from 1 to 24 hours. If your domain is not working after 24 hours, feel free to contact us on help@binder.so, and we’ll be happy to assist.
With Binder, managing custom domains for your marketing efforts has never been easier. Follow these steps to ensure your short links represent your brand effectively.