What error message are you receiving when trying to set up a custom SSL domain name in Webflow?

Published on
September 22, 2023

When trying to set up a custom SSL domain name in Webflow, you may encounter the following error message:

Error Message: SSL Validation Error (DNS problem: NXDOMAIN looking up A for domain.com)

This error message indicates a problem with the DNS (Domain Name System) configuration for your domain. Typically, this occurs when the A record for your custom domain is not properly set up or not propagated yet. Here's what you can do to troubleshoot and resolve this error:

  1. Check DNS configuration: Double-check the DNS settings for your domain. Ensure that the A record is correctly pointing to the correct IP address provided by Webflow. Make sure you entered the correct IP address and that there are no typos or extra spaces. It's also worth confirming that the CNAME record is pointing to <your-username>.webflow.io (replace <your-username> with your actual Webflow username).

  2. Wait for DNS propagation: DNS changes can take time to propagate across the internet. It usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to several hours for DNS changes to fully propagate. If you've recently made changes to your DNS settings, it's possible that the changes haven't propagated yet. Wait for some time and try again later.

  3. Clear DNS cache: Sometimes, your local DNS cache may be causing the issue. To refresh the DNS cache, you need to flush it. Instructions for clearing the DNS cache differ depending on your operating system. You can search online for instructions specific to your operating system to clear the DNS cache.

  4. Contact your domain registrar: If you've followed all the steps above and the issue persists, it's advisable to reach out to your domain registrar's support. They can assist you in troubleshooting and ensuring that the DNS records are properly configured on their end.

Remember, each domain registrar has its own DNS management interface, so the specific steps for making DNS changes may vary. If you're uncertain about how to configure your DNS settings, it's best to consult your domain registrar's documentation or support resources for guidance.

By addressing these potential issues, you should be able to overcome the SSL Validation Error in Webflow and successfully set up a custom SSL domain name.

Additional Questions:

  1. How do I set up a custom SSL domain name in Webflow?
  2. What is the purpose of SSL in Webflow?
  3. How long does it typically take for DNS changes to propagate?