Overview
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between your branded domain and your visitors, allowing your short links to use HTTPS instead of HTTP. A secure connection improves user trust, protects data in transit, and is recommended for all branded domains.
Once your custom domain has been successfully verified, SPRL automatically begins the SSL activation process. No manual certificate installation is required.
Good to Know:
SSL activation starts only after your DNS records have been correctly configured and your domain has been successfully verified.
Why SSL Is Important
Using HTTPS provides both security and a better experience for your visitors.
| Benefit | Description |
| Secure Connections | Encrypts communication between visitors and your branded domain. |
| Improved Trust | Visitors are more likely to trust links that use HTTPS. |
| Better Browser Compatibility | Modern browsers prefer secure websites and links. |
| Professional Branding | Secure branded links reinforce your company's credibility. |
How SSL Activation Works
SSL activation is performed automatically after your domain has been verified.
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Add your custom domain. |
| 2 | Configure the required DNS records. |
| 3 | SPRL verifies your domain ownership. |
| 4 | SSL certificate is automatically issued. |
| 5 | Your branded domain becomes available over HTTPS. |
Requirements for SSL Activation
Before SSL can be enabled, the following requirements must be satisfied.
| Requirement | Status Required |
| Domain Added | Completed |
| DNS Records Configured | Completed |
| Domain Verified | Completed |
| DNS Propagation | Completed |
Typical SSL Activation Timeline
SSL activation begins automatically once domain verification has completed.
| Process | Typical Time |
| DNS Propagation | Usually within 24 hours. |
| Domain Verification | Automatically after DNS is detected. |
| SSL Certificate Issued | Shortly after successful verification. |
| HTTPS Available | Once SSL activation is complete. |
How to Confirm SSL Is Active
After SSL activation has completed, you can verify that your domain is secure.
- Open your branded domain using https://.
- Verify that the page loads without browser security warnings.
- Look for the secure connection indicator in your browser.
- Create and test a branded short link using the new domain.
Common SSL Statuses
| Status | Meaning |
| Pending | Waiting for DNS verification or SSL activation. |
| Verifying | SPRL is checking your DNS configuration. |
| Active | Your domain is secured with HTTPS. |
| Failed | SSL could not be activated until the reported issue is resolved. |
Best Practices
- Complete DNS configuration before checking SSL status.
- Allow sufficient time for DNS propagation.
- Always use HTTPS when sharing branded links.
- Test your domain after SSL activation completes.
- Avoid making repeated DNS changes during verification.
Troubleshooting
My SSL certificate is still pending
SSL activation cannot begin until your DNS records have propagated and your domain has been successfully verified.
My browser shows a security warning
Check that SSL activation has completed successfully and ensure you are accessing the domain using HTTPS.
Why hasn't SSL been activated?
Most SSL delays are caused by incomplete DNS configuration or ongoing DNS propagation.
Do I need to install my own SSL certificate?
No. SPRL automatically provisions and activates SSL once your domain has been verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SSL included with Custom Domains?
Yes. SSL activation is performed automatically after successful domain verification.
Do I need technical knowledge to enable SSL?
No. Once your DNS records are configured correctly, SSL activation is handled automatically by SPRL.
Can I use HTTPS immediately after adding my domain?
No. HTTPS becomes available only after DNS verification and SSL activation have completed.
Why is HTTPS important for branded links?
HTTPS provides encrypted communication, improves user trust, and helps ensure visitors access your links securely.
Learn More:
Continue with Verify Domain Ownership to learn how SPRL confirms your DNS configuration and completes the activation of your branded domain.
Tip: After SSL becomes active, create a test short link and open it using https://. Verifying a sample link before launching a campaign ensures your branded domain is fully configured and ready for production use.