Canonical URL: https://chargezen.com/docs/spark/tracking-links/custom-domains

# Custom Domains

Set up branded short links for your affiliate program

Last updated: 2026-01-19

Custom domains let you create branded short links like `go.yourbrand.com/affiliate`instead of generic tracking URLs. This improves click-through rates and reinforces your brand.

##### Why Custom Domains Matter

Studies show branded short links get **34% higher click-through rates** than generic URLs. They also build trust and look more professional in social posts.

## Setup Steps

1

#### Choose Your Domain

2

#### Add DNS Record

3

#### Configure in Spark!

4

#### Verify Domain

5

#### Enable SSL

## DNS Configuration

Add this DNS record in your domain registrar or DNS provider:

*   **Type:** CNAME
*   **Name:** go (or your chosen subdomain)
*   **Value:** links.chargezen.com
*   **TTL:** 300 (or auto)

##### DNS Propagation

DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate globally, though most complete within 30 minutes. Use a tool like whatsmydns.net to check propagation status.

## Multiple Domains

You can configure multiple custom domains for different use cases:

*   **go.brand.com** — Primary affiliate links
*   **vip.brand.com** — Top-tier affiliate vanity links
*   **partner.brand.com** — B2B partner referrals

## Link Structure

With custom domains, links can use clean paths:

*   `go.yourbrand.com/sarah` — Affiliate's personalized link
*   `go.yourbrand.com/summer-sale` — Campaign-specific link
*   `go.yourbrand.com/p/product-name` — Product deep link

## Fallback Handling

Configure what happens when someone visits your link domain without a valid affiliate path:

*   **Redirect to Homepage** — Send to your main site
*   **Show Affiliate Signup** — Promote your affiliate program
*   **Custom Page** — Display a branded landing page
*   **404 Error** — Show a not found page

## Next Steps

[

### QR Codes

Generate scannable codes with your custom domain

Learn more



](https://chargezen.com/docs/spark/tracking-links/qr-codes)[

### UTM Parameters

Add campaign tracking to your links

Learn more



](https://chargezen.com/docs/spark/tracking-links/utm-parameters)

### Related Articles

[

#### Creating Links

Generate tracking links



](https://chargezen.com/docs/spark/tracking-links/creating-links)[

#### QR Codes

Create scannable codes



](https://chargezen.com/docs/spark/tracking-links/qr-codes)

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