Creating a blog on Blogger is a simple and accessible way to share your thoughts and ideas with the world. However, using a custom domain can give your blog a more professional and memorable presence. In this guide, we'll show you how to connect a custom domain to your Blogger blog, step by step.
Step 1: Purchase a Custom Domain
Before you can connect a custom domain to your Blogger blog, you need to have one. You can purchase a domain through various domain registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains. Choose a domain name that represents your blog well.
Step 2: Configure DNS Settings
After purchasing your custom domain, you'll need to configure its DNS settings to point to Blogger. Here's how:
- Log in to your domain registrar's website.
- Find the DNS management or DNS settings section.
- Add two CNAME records for your domain:
- www: Set the CNAME record to point to ghs.google.com.
- Another record: This record should be created automatically by Blogger and will look something like gv-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.dv.googlehosted.com.
- Note: It may take some time for DNS changes to propagate across the internet, so be patient.
Step 3: Configure Blogger Settings
Now, it's time to connect your custom domain to your Blogger blog:
- Go to the Blogger dashboard.
- Select the blog you want to connect the custom domain to (if you have multiple blogs).
- Click on "Settings" in the left-hand menu.
- Under the "Publishing" section, find "Custom domain" and click on "Set up a third-party URL for your blog."
- Enter your custom domain name (e.g., www.yourdomain.com) and click "Save."
- Blogger will display an error with two CNAME records and a destination. These records need to be added to your domain's DNS settings. Refer to your domain registrar's instructions for adding CNAME records.
- Once the DNS settings have propagated (which can take up to 48 hours), return to the Blogger dashboard, enter your custom domain again, and click "Save."
- Check the box that says, "Redirect yourdomain.com to www.yourdomain.com" if you want to ensure that visitors are always redirected to the www version of your domain.
- Click "Save."
Step 4: Test Your Custom Domain
After configuring DNS and Blogger settings, test your custom domain to ensure it's working correctly. Enter your custom domain in your web browser and verify that your Blogger blog loads on the custom domain.
Congratulations! You've successfully connected your custom domain to your Blogger blog, giving it a more professional and unique web address.
Connecting a custom domain to your Blogger blog not only enhances its appearance but also makes it easier for your audience to remember and access. With the right domain, your blog can have a stronger online presence and branding.
Frequently Asked Questions :
Q1: Can I use any domain registrar to purchase a custom domain for Blogger?
A1: Yes, you can use any domain registrar to purchase a custom domain. Popular options include GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, and more.
Q2: Do I need to purchase a custom domain separately, or can I buy it through Blogger?
A2: Blogger offers domain registration services through Google Domains, but you can also purchase a domain from any registrar and connect it to your Blogger blog.
Q3: How long does it take for DNS changes to propagate?
A3: DNS changes typically take up to 48 hours to fully propagate across the internet, although in most cases, it happens much faster.
Q4: Can I use subdomains with Blogger, e.g., blog.mydomain.com?
A4: Blogger primarily supports custom top-level domains (e.g., www.mydomain.com). Subdomains are possible but require additional configuration.
Q5: Can I change my custom domain after connecting it to Blogger?
A5: Yes, you can change your custom domain, but it involves updating DNS settings and may lead to temporary downtime. It's advisable to choose a domain you're satisfied with from the beginning.