What is the best way to publish a website on a custom domain in Webflow?

Published on
September 22, 2023

To publish a website on a custom domain in Webflow, follow these steps:

  1. Purchase a domain from a domain registrar: Before you can publish your website on a custom domain, you need to own the domain. Register a domain with a reputable domain registrar such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.

  2. Set up the DNS records: Now, you need to configure the DNS settings of your domain to point to Webflow's servers. This involves adding DNS records such as A records and CNAME records. Consult Webflow's documentation or support for specific instructions on how to configure DNS for your custom domain.

  3. Verify the DNS setup: After adding the DNS records, you need to verify the DNS setup in Webflow. Go to your Webflow project settings, select the "Hosting" tab, and click on "Add Custom Domain." Enter your custom domain and click on "Verify DNS Settings." Webflow will check if the DNS records have propagated correctly.

  4. Set the default domain: In the Webflow project settings under the "Hosting" tab, select the "Publishing" section. Set your custom domain as the default domain. This ensures that your website is accessible through your custom domain.

  5. Enable SSL: SSL (Secure Socket Layer) ensures that your website is secure and shows the padlock symbol in the browser address bar. In Webflow, go to the "Hosting" tab of your project settings and enable SSL for your custom domain. Webflow provides free SSL certificates through Let's Encrypt.

  6. Publish your website: Once the DNS setup is verified and SSL is enabled, you can publish your website on your custom domain. Click on the "Publish" button in the top-right corner of the Webflow Designer or go to the "Hosting" tab in the project settings and click on "Publish." Your website will be live on your custom domain.

  7. Test and monitor: After publishing, test your website on different devices and browsers to ensure that it is appearing correctly on your custom domain. Monitor your website's performance and make any necessary adjustments to optimize its speed and functionality.

By following these steps, you can successfully publish your Webflow website on a custom domain and have it accessible to visitors through your chosen domain.

Additional questions:

  1. How do I set up DNS records in Webflow for my custom domain?
  2. Can I use an existing domain with my Webflow website?
  3. What are the benefits of enabling SSL for my website in Webflow?