CNAME Record

A CNAME (Canonical Name) record is a type of DNS entry that maps one domain name to another. Instead of pointing a subdomain directly to an IP address (as an [A record](/glossary/dns) does), a CNAME creates an alias that resolves to the target domain's IP. When a browser looks up your subdomain, the DNS system follows the CNAME pointer to the canonical domain and then resolves that domain's A record to reach the final IP address. CNAMEs are commonly used to connect custom subdomains to third-party hosted services like content platforms, CDNs, and SaaS applications.

Branded URLs build trust and reinforce your identity. Sharing a flipbook from a generic hosted domain looks less professional than serving it from your own subdomain. CNAME records make this possible without moving your hosting or managing additional servers. They also future-proof your setup: if the service provider changes its infrastructure or IP addresses, your CNAME still points to the correct domain name, so nothing breaks on your end. For publishers who distribute content across multiple channels, a branded subdomain strengthens recognition and keeps analytics clean.

FlipLink's [Custom Domains](/features/custom-domains) feature uses CNAME records to connect your subdomain to FlipLink's servers. You add a CNAME record in your DNS provider pointing your chosen subdomain (such as docs.yourbrand.com) to FlipLink's designated endpoint. Once the DNS propagates, FlipLink automatically provisions an SSL certificate for your subdomain. All your publications then become accessible under your branded URL. There is no limit on the number of custom domains you can connect, and the setup requires no code changes on your end. CNAME-based domains are also required if you want to enable [sale mode](/glossary/sell-documents) and sell flipbooks under your own brand.

Follow these steps to configure a CNAME for FlipLink: 1. **Choose your subdomain** — Pick a memorable subdomain such as `docs.yourbrand.com` or `catalog.yourbrand.com`. Avoid using the root domain (e.g., `yourbrand.com`) because CNAME records cannot coexist with other record types at the root level. 2. **Log in to your DNS provider** — Access the DNS management panel of your domain registrar (such as Cloudflare, GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Route 53). 3. **Create the CNAME record** — Set the host/name field to your chosen subdomain and the value/target to the endpoint FlipLink provides in your dashboard. 4. **Wait for propagation** — DNS changes typically take 5 minutes to 48 hours to propagate worldwide, though most complete within an hour. 5. **Verify in FlipLink** — Add the custom domain in your FlipLink dashboard. FlipLink will check the CNAME and provision an SSL certificate automatically. 6. **Test your URL** — Visit your subdomain in a browser and confirm the flipbook loads with a valid HTTPS connection.

| Feature | CNAME Record | A Record | |---|---|---| | Points to | Another domain name | An IP address directly | | Root domain support | No (cannot be used at apex) | Yes | | IP changes | Automatically follows the target domain | Requires manual update | | Use case | Custom subdomains for SaaS services | Direct server hosting | | Multiple values | One CNAME per hostname | Multiple A records allowed | For FlipLink custom domains, CNAME is the recommended approach because it automatically adapts when FlipLink's infrastructure changes, eliminating maintenance on your side.

**Can I use a CNAME for my root domain (e.g., yourbrand.com)?** No. The DNS specification does not allow CNAME records at the zone apex (root domain) because they conflict with other required records like SOA and NS. Some DNS providers offer workarounds like ALIAS or ANAME records that behave similarly at the root level, but a subdomain with a standard CNAME is the most reliable option. **How long does DNS propagation take?** Most CNAME changes propagate within 5 to 60 minutes, but the full propagation window can extend up to 48 hours depending on TTL (Time to Live) values set by your DNS provider and caching by intermediate resolvers. You can check propagation status using tools like `dig` or online DNS checkers. **Does FlipLink handle SSL for CNAME domains?** Yes. Once your CNAME is verified, FlipLink automatically provisions and renews a free SSL certificate for your custom subdomain. No manual certificate management is needed.