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How to Use Branded Domains for Your Short Links

Heads up: Pro Feature

This feature is available on the Starter plan and above.

One of the best ways to build trust with your customers is to use links that feature your own brand name. Instead of a generic short URL, you can create links like links.yourstore.com/special-offer.

This looks professional and lets shoppers know they're clicking on a link that truly comes from you. This guide will walk you through connecting your subdomain to FlashWombat.

We're Here to Help!

This process can seem a bit technical, but it's just a few "copy and paste" steps. If you get stuck, please reach out to us at support@flashwombat.com or via our support form. We're happy to help!

Before You Begin: Use a Subdomain​

First, a quick and important tip! We highly recommend using a subdomain rather than your main store domain (e.g., yourstore.com).

A subdomain is an extension you add to the beginning, like links.yourstore.com or go.yourstore.com. Using a subdomain is the safest and easiest method because it won't interfere with your main Shopify store's website.

1: Add Your Subdomain in FlashWombat​

The first step is to tell FlashWombat which subdomain you want to use.

  1. Navigate to the Custom Domains section in the sidebar of your FlashWombat app.
  2. In the Add Custom Domain section, enter the subdomain you want to use (e.g., links.yourstore.com).
  3. Click Add Domain.

Add custom domain

After adding it, FlashWombat will show you a list of records you need. This will include one CNAME record and two TXT records. Keep this page open! You'll need to copy these values for the next step.

Domain validation overview

A: Add the CNAME Record (The Main Redirect)​

  1. Look for an option to Add a new record and select CNAME as the type in your domain registrar (e.g Godaddy and Namecheap).
  2. Copy the values from FlashWombat:
    • Type: CNAME
    • Host/Name: Enter just the subdomain part (e.g., links).
      • Note: Some providers might require the full subdomain, like links.yourstore.com. Please check their help docs if you're unsure.
    • Value/Points to: Paste the value from FlashWombat (it will look something like customers.digshop.net).
  3. Save the record.

Set up CNAME record

B: Add the TXT Record (for Domain Verification)​

  1. Add another new record, this time selecting TXT as the type in your domain registrar (e.g Godaddy and Namecheap).
  2. This record proves you own the domain. Copy the verification values from FlashWombat:
    • Type: TXT
    • Host/Name: Paste the _cf-custom-hostname value (e.g., _cf-custom-hostname.links) or _cf-custom-hostname.links.yourstore.com.
    • Value/Points to: Paste the long verification code provided by FlashWombat.
  3. Save the record.

Set up TXT record for domain verification

C. Add the Second TXT Record (for HTTPS/SSL)​

  1. Add one more new record, again selecting TXT in your domain registrar (e.g Godaddy and Namecheap).
  2. This record ensures your new links are secure (using https):
    • Type: TXT
    • Host/Name: Paste the _acme-challenge value (e.g., _acme-challenge.links) or _acme-challenge.links.yourstore.com.
    • Value/Points to: Paste the unique value provided for this record.
  3. Save this final record.

Set up TXT record for HTTPS

3: Verify Your Setup in FlashWombat​

You've done the hard part! Now, go back to the Custom Domains page in your FlashWombat app.

Click the Refresh Status button. It can sometimes take a few minutes (or in rare cases, up to 48 hours) for your new settings to be visible across the internet. This is called "propagation."

Once it's connected, you'll see an Active status. You can now select this domain from the dropdown menu when creating your short URLs!

Refresh domain settings

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