Branded short links
Branded short links on your own domain
A branded short link is a shortened URL that uses your own domain — like go.yourbrand.com/sale — instead of a generic shortener. Branded links look trustworthy and can earn up to 39% more clicks, because people recognize who they're clicking. fewly lets you connect a custom domain and create branded short URLs in minutes, with automatic HTTPS.
What is a branded short link?
A branded short link (also called a custom short URL or vanity URL) replaces the generic domain of a normal short link with your own brand. Compare bit.ly/3xY9z2 with go.acme.com/spring-sale — the second is clearly Acme, tells the visitor where they're going, and reinforces your brand on every share.
Why branded links get more clicks
People click links they trust. A recognizable domain plus a readable back-half signals legitimacy, which matters most on social media, email, SMS, and printed QR codes where the destination isn't obvious. Branding your links also keeps your domain visible everywhere your content is shared.
- Build trust with a domain people recognize
- Readable back-halves like /spring-sale, not random codes
- Keep your brand on every share, repost, and screenshot
- Move links between providers later without breaking them
- Free automatic TLS certificate on every custom domain
- Set a default domain or choose per link
How to create a branded short link
It takes three steps and a couple of minutes:
- Add your domain (usually a subdomain like
go.yourbrand.com) in fewly. - Create the DNS records we show you, then click Verify — fewly provisions HTTPS automatically.
- Pick your domain when you shorten a link and choose a custom back-half.
See the full walkthrough in the custom domains guide.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a branded link and a short link?
- Every branded link is a short link, but it uses your own domain instead of a generic one. A short link might be go.fewly.tech/abc123; a branded link is go.yourbrand.com/sale. Branded links build more trust and typically get more clicks.
- Do I need my own domain for branded links?
- Yes — branded links use a domain you control, usually a short subdomain like go.yourbrand.com or yb.link. You add it once in fewly, verify ownership with a DNS record, and fewly handles HTTPS automatically.
- Is HTTPS included on custom domains?
- Yes. The moment your domain verifies, fewly provisions a free Let's Encrypt TLS certificate and renews it automatically, so your branded links always load over secure https://.
- Can I use branded links for free?
- Custom branded domains are available on fewly's Pro and Team plans. You can start free, test the product, and upgrade when you're ready to brand your links.