When adding a domain to BL.INK, users will need to update DNS for the domain or subdomain with the company the domain was registered with.
This process is usually very simple and should only take a few minutes, depending on your corporate IT processes.
There are two options for configuring DNS depending on the type of domain being used with BL.INK.
Option 1: For use with a primary or root domain
If the domain is a dedicated primary domain (ex. yourdomain.com), users will need to create an A Record. This essentially tells the domain where to point. When using a primary domain to shorten links, the A record needs to point to BL.INK so that we can route the traffic correctly.
NOTE:
An A Record is commonly use to point a domain to a website. If the domain added to BL.INK is currently pointing to a website, it is recommend that users set up a different domain or a subdomain (see Option 2) for creating short links.
BL.INK also offers a number of different domains that can be acquired directly through the BL.INK account from the My Domains page.
To update the A Record for a domain, log in to the domain hosting account (where the domain was purchased or where it is being hosted) and update the A Record.
The A Record should point to the IP address: 18.208.85.101 and the hostname should read @
NOTE:
Once updated, the DNS may take up to 24-48 hours as the new entry propagates. Check back regularly, as it may happen sooner.
Make sure to clear the cache or check in a different browser if the changes aren't showing after 48 hours.
Option 2: For use with a subdomain
If the domain is a subdomain of the primary domain (ex. links.yourdomain.com), users will set up a new CNAME Record. This is another type of DNS entry that routes the traffic to the specific subdomain. A CNAME points to another domain rather than an IP address.
The benefit of setting up a CNAME is that users will not have to worry about future DNS changes in the event we have to migrate the domain.
When configuring a new CNAME record, use BL2.blink.domains for the CNAME destination. Then use whatever precedes the domain as the hostname (ex. To set up a CNAME record for the subdomain links.yourdomain.com, the hostname would be links).
NOTE:
Once updated, the DNS may take up to 24-48 hours to propagate. Check back regularly, as is may happen sooner.
Make sure to clear the cache or check in a different browser if the changes aren't showing after 48 hours.
TIP:
Most domain registrars will have support articles detailing the steps to update DNS within their help sections.
Check out our list of registrar specific articles here.
If you have more questions on updating the DNS for a domain name, please submit a ticket.