How To Update Your Custom Domain Using A CNAME

2 min read

As of January 31st, 2024, Hike will no longer use an A-Record for custom domains/sub-domains and instead will use a CNAME. If you do not switch to a CNAME by this date, your custom domain/sub-domain will automatically show Hike branding.

Here’s what you need to do to make this switch:

  1. Log in to your hosting account, where you set up your custom domain/sub-domain for Hike.
  1. Remove the A-Record you added for Hike (which will be pointing to ‘35.176.131.175.’)
  1. Next, you need to add a CNAME record for the custom domain/sub-domain that points to ‘domains.hike.marketing’.
  1. Finally, head back to https://my.hike.marketing/settings#whitelabel and click on the red ‘Re-Verify’ button next to the custom domain/sub-domain you entered.
  1. We'll verify your custom domain/sub-domain to ensure it is properly configured. Should there be any concerns, they'll be displayed on the page.

The propagation period for this change can take up to 72 hours, but in most cases, it's done within one hour. During this propagation period, your custom domain/sub-domain won’t load.

It's important to either make this update during a period of low customer activity or inform your customers beforehand to manage their expectations.

The current custom domain/sub-domain will continue to work until you switch over. However, after January 31st, 2024, your custom domain/sub-domain will no longer work without this change, and it will show Hike branding.

A few important things to note regarding this process are:

  • A CNAME and an A-Record cannot coexist in the same domain, so you must remove the old A-Record.
  • Some registrars (GoDaddy, for example) restrict setting CNAME records for root domains. If you have any issues, you must contact your registrar for advice. A sub-domain may be required to overcome this.

We understand that changes like these can be inconvenient, and appreciate your prompt action to help us maintain the highest quality of service. To ensure you’re not affected by this change, please make this switch before January 31st, 2024.

For any queries or assistance, please contact our support team via our live chat or email us at support@hikeseo.co.

Did this answer your question?