What is a Domain?
A domain is a branded name that identifies a website, replacing the need to enter an IP address. Instead of typing a string of numbers, users can enter a domain name like sharplaunch.com or disney.com, making websites easier to remember and access.
What Does the Custom Domain Feature Do in SharpLaunch?
The Custom Domain feature in SharpLaunch lets you connect your own domain to your SharpLaunch property sites and PSE (property search engine), white-labeling the URL. Instead of propertyXYZ.sharplaunch.com, you can use yourdomain.com/propertyXYZ, creating a more branded, professional, and consistent experience for your clients.
Connecting a Custom Domain in SharpLaunch
In order to complete this process, you will need to follow the instructions below to change your DNS settings:
Step 1 – Update DNS Settings (will depend on your hosting company):
- Use this article to navigate to the part of your Go Daddy dashboard where you can update the DNS settings.
- You need to change the A record (root domain) and the www record. The new A record is: 18.235.130.216
- Change the TTL to a minimum of 5 minutes.
- Create a CNAME record and point it to the URL (SharpLaunch.com), attached is a screenshot of how the CNAMEs look in Namecheap DNS zone file, but that structure is similar for all registrars.
- Add a new DNS record
- Type: CNAME
- Host: www
- Value: SharpLaunch.com
- TTL: 30 mins, or 1800 if in seconds or the default option
- [Optional] add another DNS record like above but with host “@” if we want to work with the non-www domain
Step 2 – Update SharpLaunch Settings
Go to SharpLauch, then go to the individual dashboard for each property, click on the “CMS” tab, then on the “Settings” tab, then “SEO & Domain”.
Here you should see a box that says “Website Domain”. This is where you will place the custom domain/URL. Then click “Save” next to it and then click save changes at the top right.
Step 3 – Notify Us to Finalize Update
Send an email to help@SharpLaunch.com and let us know this has been done. Send us the domain name and we’ll set up an SSL Certificate. After this is done, the website domain will be active.
Need More Help?
If you need help connecting a custom domain to your SharpLaunch property pages or need more information on the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Client Success Manager.