How to add a custom domain with free SSL
Last updated 8 August 2026
Want your site at www.yourbrand.com instead of a subdomain? You can connect your own domain to a MakeMySiteLive site with a single DNS record, and SSL is issued and renewed for you automatically. Here’s how.
What you’ll need
- A MakeMySiteLive Pro site (custom domains require a Pro site and an available custom-domain slot).
- A domain you own and access to its DNS settings (at your registrar or DNS provider).
Steps
- Step 1 of 6Step 1 of 6
Open your site’s domain settings
In the dashboard, go to the site you want to use and open its Domain & password tab.
You should see: the tabs under your site's details.
- Open the Domain & password tab
- Step 2 of 6Step 2 of 6
Add your domain
Enter the domain (for example, www.yourbrand.com). MakeMySiteLive will show you the exact DNS target to point to.
You should see: the Your own name card.
- Type your domain and select Add name
- Step 3 of 6Step 3 of 6
Try automatic setup first
If your domain's DNS is managed by GoDaddy or Cloudflare, MakeMySiteLive offers to set the record up for you. You approve the exact change at your provider and come straight back. Only the one record for your hostname is created, and your email and other DNS records are left alone. If your provider is not supported, continue with the manual step below.
You should see: We found your domain, with the name of your DNS provider.
- Connect automatically if we found your provider
- Or set it up by hand
- Step 4 of 6Step 4 of 6
Or create the DNS record yourself
At your DNS provider, add the single A or CNAME record shown by MakeMySiteLive. Save the change.
You should see: one record with a Copy button.
- Copy this record to your DNS provider
- Step 5 of 6Step 5 of 6
Check the connection
Back in the dashboard, select Check again. DNS can take a little time to update. Once it does, the domain is connected.
You should see: the progress line under the record.
- Select Check again
- The next tick turns on when we find it
- Step 6 of 6Step 6 of 6
SSL is automatic
An SSL certificate is issued and renewed for your domain automatically. There’s nothing to configure or pay extra for.
You should see: Secure lock issued ticked in the progress line.
- The secure lock turns on by itself
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay extra for SSL?
No. SSL is free and automatic on custom domains, just like on subdomains.
Can I use a root/apex domain (yourbrand.com without www)?
Yes. MakeMySiteLive shows one A record for an apex domain and handles HTTPS automatically.
Why do I need a Pro site for a custom domain?
Custom domains are available on Pro sites. Your free full site and microsites stay on makemysitelive.com subdomains.
Do I have to edit DNS records by hand?
Not if your domain uses GoDaddy or Cloudflare for DNS. MakeMySiteLive can create the record for you after you approve it at your provider. We never ask for or store your DNS password, API key, or access token. Every other provider uses the manual record, which is one line to add.
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