Substack terms

Custom Domain

Using a personalized domain name for the newsletter.

What is a custom domain in Substack?

A custom domain in Substack refers to a personalized web address that a user can use for their Substack newsletter. Instead of having a URL that ends with "substack.com", users can choose to have a unique domain name that represents their brand or the content of their newsletter. This feature allows users to further professionalize their newsletters, making them appear more credible and established.

The custom domain feature is particularly beneficial for users who want to maintain a consistent brand identity across all platforms. It also improves the newsletter's visibility and searchability on the web. However, it's important to note that setting up a custom domain on Substack may require additional steps and costs, including purchasing the domain from a domain registrar and configuring DNS settings.

How do I set up a custom domain in Substack?

Setting up a custom domain in Substack is a straightforward process. First, you need to purchase a domain from a domain registrar like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or others. Once you have your domain, you need to go to your Substack dashboard, click on 'Settings', and then 'Custom Domain'. Enter your purchased domain name in the provided field and click 'Save'.

The next step is to configure your domain's DNS settings. This is done on the website of your domain registrar. You need to create a CNAME record that points to custom.substack.com. The exact steps for this can vary depending on your registrar, but generally, you'll need to go to your domain settings, find the DNS settings, and add a new CNAME record with the host as 'www' and the value as 'custom.substack.com'. Once you've done this, it can take up to 48 hours for the changes to take effect. After the DNS settings have propagated, your custom domain should be live on Substack.

Why should I use a custom domain in Substack?

Using a custom domain in Substack can offer several benefits. Firstly, it can help in building and enhancing your brand identity. A custom domain is more professional and memorable, making it easier for your audience to find and recognize your content. It gives you a unique identity on the web and helps you stand out from the crowd.

Secondly, it provides you with more control and flexibility. With a custom domain, you're not tied to the Substack platform. If you ever decide to move your newsletter to another platform, you can easily do so without losing your web address and the SEO benefits associated with it. It also gives you the opportunity to add other features and functionalities that may not be available on Substack. Overall, a custom domain can be a valuable asset in your content marketing strategy.

What are the benefits of using a custom domain in Substack?

Using a custom domain in Substack offers several benefits. Firstly, it enhances your brand identity and credibility. A custom domain gives your newsletter a professional look and makes it easier for your audience to recognize and remember your brand. It also gives you the freedom to choose a domain name that perfectly represents your brand or the content of your newsletter.

Secondly, it improves your search engine optimization (SEO). Search engines like Google give higher rankings to websites with their own domain names. This means that your newsletter is more likely to appear in search results, increasing its visibility and potentially attracting more subscribers. Lastly, having a custom domain gives you more control over your online presence. You can decide what content to publish and how to present it, without being restricted by the platform's default settings.

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