PlaybookAdd a custom domain to my Vercel project
When to use this: You own a domain (like example.com) and want the site served from it instead of *.vercel.app.
Before you start
Steps
-
Add the domain in Vercel
Project, Settings, Domains, enter
example.com, click Add. Vercel also offerswww.example.comand a redirect between them. -
Copy the DNS records Vercel shows
Vercel displays exactly which record to create (an A record for the root domain, a CNAME for
www). Use the values shown in YOUR dashboard, because they can differ per project. -
Create the records at your DNS provider
Add the record(s) exactly as shown. Remove conflicting old A/CNAME records for the same name. Alternatively point your nameservers to Vercel and let it manage DNS.
-
Wait for verification
terminalvercel domains inspect example.comPropagation takes minutes, sometimes a few hours. The dashboard shows 'Valid Configuration' when done. HTTPS certificates are issued automatically.
How to verify it worked
- Opening
https://example.comshows the site with a valid padlock.
How to undo it
Remove the domain in Settings, Domains, then restore the old DNS records at your provider.
Common errors and fixes
Q&A
Why do I need both an A record and a CNAME?
The bare domain (example.com) cannot be a CNAME at most providers, so it uses an A record. Subdomains like www use a CNAME.
Who provides the HTTPS certificate?
Vercel issues and renews it automatically once DNS points to the project.