Overview
Using a branded custom domain is one of the most effective ways to improve brand recognition, increase user trust, and create professional-looking short links. Following a few best practices will help ensure your domains remain secure, reliable, and easy to manage.
This guide provides recommendations for choosing, configuring, and maintaining custom domains in SPRL.
Good to Know:
Branded links typically improve click-through rates by 20–30% compared to generic short links because users are more likely to trust recognisable domains.
Choose the Right Domain
Select a domain that is short, memorable, and closely aligned with your brand.
| Recommended | Avoid |
| Short and easy to remember | Long or difficult-to-spell names |
| Brand-related names | Random abbreviations |
| Easy to pronounce | Numbers or unnecessary symbols |
| Professional appearance | Names that may confuse visitors |
Use a Dedicated Subdomain
If your primary website is already hosted on your main domain, use a dedicated subdomain for branded links.
| Recommended Examples | Purpose |
| go.example.com | General branded short links. |
| links.example.com | Marketing campaigns. |
| promo.example.com | Promotional activities. |
| share.example.com | Content sharing. |
Using a dedicated subdomain avoids conflicts with your primary website while keeping link management simple.
Complete Domain Setup Properly
Before using your branded domain, ensure the entire setup process has been completed.
| Checklist | Status |
| Domain added to SPRL | ✔ |
| DNS records configured | ✔ |
| Domain verified | ✔ |
| SSL activated | ✔ |
| Test links verified | ✔ |
Maintain Consistent Branding
Consistency helps visitors recognise your links and builds confidence in your communications.
- Use the same branded domain across all marketing channels.
- Keep your naming conventions consistent.
- Avoid switching between multiple domains unnecessarily.
- Use meaningful custom slugs whenever appropriate.
Use Different Domains Strategically
If you manage multiple domains, assign each one a specific purpose.
| Purpose | Recommendation |
| Corporate Links | Use your primary branded domain. |
| Marketing Campaigns | Use a dedicated campaign domain. |
| Regional Markets | Assign separate domains for each region. |
| Client Projects | Use dedicated client-specific domains. |
Keep Your Domain Secure
Protect your branded domain to maintain trust and minimise service interruptions.
- Keep your domain registration active.
- Review DNS settings periodically.
- Use HTTPS after SSL activation.
- Limit access to DNS management.
- Remove unused or outdated DNS records when appropriate.
Monitor Your Domains
Regularly reviewing your configured domains helps identify issues before they affect visitors.
| Review Item | Recommended Frequency |
| Verification Status | Monthly |
| SSL Status | Monthly |
| Link Testing | Before major campaigns |
| DNS Configuration | After DNS changes |
Avoid These Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Recommended Practice |
| Using your production website domain for link redirection | Use a dedicated subdomain whenever possible. |
| Sharing links before SSL activation | Wait until HTTPS is active. |
| Frequent DNS changes | Allow propagation before making additional updates. |
| Ignoring domain status | Review your domain dashboard regularly. |
Best Practices Summary
- Choose a short, memorable branded domain.
- Prefer a dedicated subdomain for branded links.
- Complete DNS verification and SSL activation before use.
- Keep branding consistent across all campaigns.
- Assign different domains for different business purposes.
- Review your domain configuration regularly.
- Test branded links before every major campaign launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use my main website domain?
In most cases, using a dedicated subdomain such as go.example.com or links.example.com is recommended to avoid conflicts with your primary website.
Can I use multiple branded domains?
Yes. Many organisations use different branded domains for separate products, campaigns, or regions.
How often should I review my domain configuration?
Review your domains regularly and always verify them before launching important marketing campaigns.
Is HTTPS required?
Yes. Always use your branded domain with HTTPS after SSL activation to provide a secure experience for visitors.
Learn More:
Continue with Transfer a Domain to SPRL to learn how to move an existing branded domain into SPRL and complete the required configuration steps.
Tip: Before launching any campaign, create a few test short links and verify that redirection, HTTPS, and analytics are all working correctly. Spending a few minutes testing can prevent broken links and ensure a smooth experience for your audience.