github pages custom domain

HaC 2025

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13-10-2024

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Setting Up Your Custom Domain on GitHub Pages: A Step-by-Step Guide

GitHub Pages offers a simple and efficient way to host static websites. While the default GitHub Pages domain (e.g., yourusername.github.io) is convenient, having a custom domain can significantly enhance your website's professionalism and branding.

This article will guide you through setting up a custom domain on your GitHub Pages website, incorporating insightful answers from the GitHub community to address potential issues and provide a comprehensive experience.

What is a Custom Domain?

A custom domain is a personalized website address that you choose and register. Instead of using the default yourusername.github.io, your website will be accessible through a domain like yourwebsite.com. This offers several benefits:

• Professionalism: A custom domain makes your website look more polished and trustworthy.
• Branding: You can choose a domain name that accurately reflects your brand identity.
• SEO: A custom domain can improve your website's search engine ranking.

Getting Started

Before we dive in, let's ensure you have the following:

• A registered custom domain: You can register a domain name through popular providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.
• A GitHub Pages website: If you haven't already, create a new repository for your website.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Configure your DNS Settings:

   • Log in to your domain registrar's control panel (GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.).

   • Navigate to your domain's DNS management section.

   • Add two new CNAME records with the following configurations:

     • Name: www
       • Value: yourusername.github.io (Replace with your GitHub Pages site's default domain)
     • Name: yourdomain.com (Replace with your custom domain name)
       • Value: yourusername.github.io (Replace with your GitHub Pages site's default domain)

   Note: Some registrars might have slightly different terminology or options. Consult your domain registrar's documentation if you need assistance.

2. Create a CNAME file in your repository:

   • Create a new file named CNAME in the root directory of your GitHub Pages repository.
   • Add your custom domain name to this file: yourdomain.com (Replace with your actual domain name).

3. Commit and push your changes to GitHub:

   • Commit the changes to your repository.
   • Push the changes to your remote branch.

4. Wait for propagation:

   • It might take a few hours for the DNS changes to propagate across the internet.
   • You can use a tool like https://whatsmydns.net/ to check if the changes have taken effect.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• "Error: Domain name cannot be verified" (GitHub): This often occurs if the CNAME record is configured incorrectly. Double-check your DNS settings to ensure they are accurate.

  Community tip (from GitHub user jburke: https://github.com/github/pages/issues/3184 ): "It's important to make sure you've added a CNAME record for both the root domain and the www subdomain. If you're using a domain registrar that automatically adds a 'www' redirect, you might not need to create a separate CNAME record for 'www'."

• "DNS records are not yet propagated": Give it time! DNS propagation can take several hours. You can use the tool mentioned above to check the progress.

Additional Tips and Best Practices

• Use an HTTPS certificate: Secure your website with an SSL certificate to ensure data encryption and enhance user trust. GitHub Pages automatically provides free SSL certificates for custom domains.
• Optimize your website: After setting up your custom domain, focus on optimizing your website's content, performance, and user experience.

Conclusion

Setting up a custom domain for your GitHub Pages website is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your website's branding and professionalism. By following this guide and utilizing community insights, you can ensure a smooth and successful experience.

Remember to always double-check your DNS settings and be patient with DNS propagation. With a custom domain, your website will stand out and attract more visitors.