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Connecting a custom domain to your funnels and websites is essential for a professional online presence. This lesson explains the difference between domains and subdomains, when to use each, and how to connect them through direct integration or manual DNS configuration.

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Understanding domains vs. subdomains

A domain is your root web address (e.g., yourbusiness.com). A subdomain is a prefix added to your root domain (e.g., store.yourbusiness.com or booking.yourbusiness.com).If you already have a website on your root domain, use a subdomain to avoid conflicts. If you want to use the root domain exclusively for platform-built pages, you can connect it directly.
  • Domain: Your main web address (root)
  • Subdomain: A prefix of your domain used for a specific purpose
  • Path: A folder-level extension of your domain (e.g., yourbusiness.com/offers)
  • CNAME record: A DNS record that points a subdomain to another domain (used for subdomain connections)
  • A record: A DNS record that points a domain directly to an IP address (used for root domain connections)

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How to add a domain or subdomain

1

Navigate to Domains

Go to Settings in the left sidebar and select Domains (or go to Sites > Domains depending on your view).
2

Click Add Domain

Click Add Domain and enter the domain or subdomain you want to connect (e.g., pages.yourbusiness.com).
3

Choose your connection method

The platform offers two connection options:
  • Direct Domain Connect Integration: Available for domains registered with supported registrars (such as GoDaddy). The platform can automatically configure DNS settings on your behalf.
  • Manual Connection: You add the DNS records yourself at your domain registrar.
If your registrar supports it, use Direct Domain Connect for the fastest setup.
4

Add the DNS records manually (if needed)

If connecting manually, the platform will display the DNS records you need to add. Log in to your domain registrar’s DNS management panel and add:
  • A CNAME record pointing your subdomain to the platform’s provided hostname (for subdomains)
  • An A record pointing your root domain to the platform’s IP address (for root domains)
Save the records and allow 15 minutes to 48 hours for DNS propagation.
5

Verify the connection

Return to the HoopAI Platform and click Verify or Check DNS. Once the records propagate, your domain status will show as verified and active.
6

Assign the domain to a funnel or website

After verification, go to your funnel or website settings and assign your connected domain. The platform will use this domain as the public-facing address for that funnel or website.

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Key points

Use a subdomain if your root domain is already hosting an existing website. Use the root domain if you want all of your web presence managed within the HoopAI Platform and you do not have a separate website elsewhere.
DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours to propagate globally. If your domain does not verify immediately, wait and try again later.
You can connect multiple domains or subdomains to your account. Each funnel or website can be assigned a different domain, allowing you to manage multiple brands or campaigns from one platform.

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Key benefits

  • Brand identity: A custom domain enhances your brand’s credibility and professionalism.
  • Full ownership: Registering and connecting your own domain gives you complete control over your web address.
  • Flexibility with subdomains: Subdomains let you create dedicated sections for offers, booking, or products without affecting your main website.
  • Seamless integration: Connected domains work natively with funnels and websites built inside the HoopAI Platform.
  • Multiple connection options: Both direct integration and manual DNS setup are supported, giving you flexibility based on your registrar.
Last modified on March 4, 2026