Overview
Before your custom domain can be used for branded short links, SPRL must verify that you own or control the domain. Domain verification is completed by checking the DNS records you configured during the setup process.
Once ownership has been verified, SPRL proceeds with SSL activation and prepares your domain for creating branded short links.
Good to Know:
Domain verification is performed automatically. No manual approval or support request is required in most cases.
Why Domain Verification Is Required
Verification helps ensure that only authorised users can connect and use a domain with their SPRL account.
| Benefit | Description |
| Ownership Validation | Confirms that you control the domain. |
| Account Security | Prevents unauthorised users from adding domains they do not own. |
| SSL Activation | Verification is required before HTTPS can be enabled. |
| Reliable Link Delivery | Ensures your branded links function correctly. |
How Domain Verification Works
After you configure the required DNS records, SPRL automatically checks your domain at regular intervals.
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Add your custom domain. |
| 2 | Configure the DNS records provided by SPRL. |
| 3 | Wait for DNS propagation. |
| 4 | SPRL automatically verifies the DNS configuration. |
| 5 | SSL activation begins after successful verification. |
Verification Statuses
During the setup process, your domain may display one of the following statuses.
| Status | Meaning |
| Pending | Your domain has been added but DNS verification has not completed. |
| Verifying | SPRL is checking your DNS records. |
| Verified | Domain ownership has been confirmed successfully. |
| Verification Failed | DNS records could not be validated. Review your configuration and try again. |
Typical Verification Timeline
The time required depends mainly on DNS propagation.
| Stage | Typical Time |
| DNS Changes Saved | Immediate. |
| DNS Propagation | Usually within 24 hours. |
| Automatic Verification | Begins once DNS records become visible. |
| SSL Activation | Starts after successful verification. |
How to Check Verification Status
- Navigate to Dashboard → Custom Domains.
- Locate the domain you configured.
- Review its current verification status.
- If verification has completed successfully, your domain will proceed to SSL activation.
If Verification Fails
Most verification failures are caused by DNS configuration issues rather than problems with the domain itself.
| Possible Cause | Recommended Action |
| Incorrect DNS record | Compare your DNS records with the values provided by SPRL. |
| DNS propagation still in progress | Allow additional time before checking again. |
| Domain configured incorrectly | Verify that the correct domain or subdomain was added. |
| Conflicting DNS records | Remove or update conflicting records if necessary. |
What Happens After Verification?
Once your domain has been verified successfully:
- SSL activation begins automatically.
- Your branded domain is prepared for HTTPS.
- The domain becomes available when creating short links.
- You can begin using branded URLs in your campaigns.
Best Practices
- Copy DNS records exactly as provided.
- Wait for DNS propagation before making additional changes.
- Avoid deleting DNS records while verification is pending.
- Use a dedicated subdomain if your primary website is already active.
- Test your branded domain after verification and SSL activation.
Troubleshooting
My domain is still showing Pending
DNS propagation may not have completed yet. Wait a little longer before making additional DNS changes.
Verification keeps failing
Review every DNS record carefully and ensure they exactly match the values provided by SPRL.
Can I verify my domain manually?
No. Verification is performed automatically after SPRL detects the required DNS configuration.
Why hasn't SSL started?
SSL activation begins only after successful domain verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to submit proof that I own the domain?
No. Ownership is confirmed automatically through your DNS configuration.
How long does verification usually take?
Verification typically completes after DNS propagation, which usually occurs within 24 hours.
Can I use my domain before verification is complete?
No. Your domain must be verified before it can be used to generate branded short links.
What should I do if verification never completes?
Review your DNS configuration carefully, wait for propagation to finish, and confirm that all records exactly match those provided by SPRL.
Learn More:
Continue with Troubleshooting Domain Setup to learn how to resolve common DNS, verification, SSL, and configuration issues when setting up your branded domain.
Tip: After updating your DNS records, avoid making further DNS changes while waiting for verification. Frequent modifications can delay propagation and extend the overall setup time.