Using custom domains

In this article, we'll explore the Domain Settings tab within the Tadabase Application Builder. This essential settings menu empowers you to manage your application's domain settings with ease. Whether you want to assign a custom domain, configure multiple custom domains, set browser tab titles for pages, or configure app meta tags, the Domain Settings tab has you covered. Let's dive in!

Custom Domains

An SSL certificate will be provided when using a Custom Domain.

Understanding Custom Domains

Before we begin, it's crucial to distinguish between root domains and sub-domains. Tadabase currently supports the use of sub-domains for custom domains. Here's what you need to know:

• Sub-Domain (Recommended): Example - app.mysite.com
• Root Domain (Not Recommended): Example - mysite.com

Now that you understand the domain types, let's proceed with assigning your custom domain.

Assigning a Custom Sub-Domain

1. Access Domain Settings: Log in to your Tadabase account and open your app. In the menu located on the left-hand side of the Builder, click on Settings, then select Domain Settings.

2. Enter Custom Domain: In the Custom Domain section, enter the sub-domain name you wish to use for your app. For example, if you want app.mysite.com, enter app.mysite.com here. 

Configuring DNS Settings

Now that you've specified your custom sub-domain within Tadabase, the next step is to configure your DNS settings with your domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Google Domains, Wix). Follow these steps:

1. Log into Domain Registrar: Sign in to your domain registrar's dashboard (e.g., GoDaddy, Google Domains).

2. Create a CNAME Record: Locate the option to create a new CNAME record within your DNS settings. The specific location may vary depending on your registrar.

3. Point to Tadabase: Set the CNAME record to point to us-apps-3.tadabase.io. This record associates your custom sub-domain with your Tadabase app.

Additional Resources for Popular Registrars

• GoDaddy: GoDaddy CNAME Record Setup
• Google Domains: Google Domains CNAME Record Setup
• Wix: Wix CNAME Record Setup

Root Domains (Enterprise Plans Only)

For Enterprise plans, Tadabase also supports root domains and multiple domains in the same app. If you're not on an Enterprise plan and need root domain functionality, you can purchase a Static IP for $1200/year. Please note that Tadabase prefers CNAMEs over IP addresses for reliability and redundancy.

Important: Never use Tadabase's IP address in your A record, as our load balancing and auto-scaling technology may disrupt your site.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your custom domain setup, here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Verify DNS Record: Ensure that your CNAME record appears correctly using tools like MXToolBox or DNSChecker.

• Host Value: When creating the CNAME record, enter only the subdomain part of your URL as the host value. For instance, if you plan to use app.example.com, enter only 'app' for the host value.

• SSL Error: Custom domains are not available during trial periods. If you're experiencing SSL errors, be sure you've subscribed to a plan.

• Map Component or Address Autocomplete: If you intend to use the Map component or Address autocomplete with your custom domain, please contact our support team via chat or email to whitelist your domain.

Congratulations! You've successfully configured your custom sub-domain with Tadabase using the Domain Settings tab. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for assistance. Happy app building!

Learn more about customizing titles and meta tags here. 

FAQs

Question:

Is there a way to extend an existing domain for my Tadabase application, such as using "website.com/portal/login" where "login" is the start of the application pages?

Answer:

While it's technically possible to set up your Tadabase application under a path like "website.com/portal/login," it would require advanced technical work on your side. Specifically, you would need to configure a reverse proxy to route traffic to your Tadabase application. This involves complex server configurations and is not supported natively by Tadabase.

By default, Tadabase custom domains automatically remove the app name from the domain. The standard options available are:

• Customized Tadabase Subdomain: "subdomain.tadabase.io/login"
• Subdomain of Your Custom Domain: "subdomain.website.com/login"

These options are straightforward to implement and fully supported by Tadabase. If you choose to pursue the reverse proxy method to achieve "website.com/portal/login," please be aware that Tadabase support may not be able to assist with issues arising from such custom configurations.