Branded Link Domain DNS Records
A branded link domain replaces the generic tracking host in your Broadcast links with a subdomain you own (for example, links.example.com). Before that subdomain can rewrite and track clicks, you publish a small set of DNS records so the platform can verify ownership and issue an HTTPS certificate. This page lists the record types you are typically asked to add. The exact host names and target values are shown in your account when you add the domain — copy them from there rather than from this table.
Reference
| Record type | Host / name (example) | Value / target (example) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNAME | links.example.com | <provided-tracking-host> | Routes clicks on your branded subdomain to the tracking service so links can be rewritten and measured. |
| TXT | _verify.links.example.com | <provided-verification-token> | Proves you control the domain during initial verification. |
| CNAME (certificate) | <provided-acme-host>.links.example.com | <provided-acme-target> | Lets the platform validate and auto-renew the HTTPS certificate for the subdomain. |
| CAA (only if you already use CAA) | links.example.com | 0 issue "<provided-ca>" | Authorizes the certificate authority the platform uses, if your zone restricts issuers. |
Notes
- Use the exact host and value strings shown in your account. Do not add a trailing dot, protocol (
https://), or path unless your DNS provider requires it. - A branded link subdomain must be a CNAME, so pick a subdomain (such as
links.orclick.) rather than your root/apex domain, which usually cannot be a CNAME. - Some DNS providers auto-append the zone name. If your host field already assumes
example.com, enter only the label (links) rather than the fulllinks.example.com. - Propagation can take from a few minutes up to 24-48 hours. Verification and certificate issuance complete automatically once the records resolve.
- Only add a CAA record if your zone already has one. If no CAA record exists, certificate issuance is allowed by default and you can skip it.
- Once the domain shows as active, apply it to new Broadcasts; links in previously sent Broadcasts keep the domain they were created with. (Confirm the exact steps in your account.)
Related
- Set up a branded link domain
- Link tracking and click metrics
- Deliverability and domain authentication
Canonical terms: Author, Edition, Folder (Project Folder), Broadcast. See the Glossary.