> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.rechat.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.rechat.com/guides/marketing/websites/connect-existing-domains.md).
# Connect Existing Domains
### Connect your domain
#### 1. Add your domain
1. Go to **Manage Domains** on your website.
2. Add your existing domain, such as `yourdomain.com`.
#### 2. Update DNS records
1. Sign in to your domain provider’s control panel.
2. Create these DNS records:
```
Type: CNAME
Host/Name: @
Value/Points to: endpoint.rechat.site
TTL: Default (or 3600 seconds)
```
```
Type: CNAME
Host/Name: www
Value/Points to: endpoint.rechat.site
TTL: Default (or 3600 seconds)
```
{% hint style="warning" %}
Some providers do not allow a root (`@`) CNAME. Redirect `yourdomain.com` to `www.yourdomain.com`, then create only the `www` CNAME.
{% endhint %}
#### 3. Wait for propagation
DNS propagation begins after you save the records. It can take a few hours, or up to 24 hours.
Your website becomes available on your custom domain after propagation completes.
#### 4. Provider-specific guides
* [GoDaddy](https://www.godaddy.com/help/edit-my-domain-nameservers-664)
* [Namecheap](https://www.namecheap.com/support/knowledgebase/article.aspx/767/10/how-to-change-dns-for-a-domain/)
* [HostGator](https://www.hostgator.com/help/article/how-do-i-change-my-dns-or-name-servers)
### Configure SSL
Every website should use HTTPS with a valid SSL certificate.
When you connect a domain using CNAME records, Rechat does not manage SSL automatically.
Rechat does not generate certificate signing requests (CSRs). We cannot install customer-provided certificates. We also cannot renew certificates from third-party providers.
Do not purchase an SSL certificate for Rechat to install. Instead, use one of these supported approaches.
#### Option 1: Use Cloudflare DNS and free SSL
Cloudflare is the recommended option for most customers. It provides:
* Free SSL certificates and automatic renewal
* DNS management and a global CDN
* DDoS protection and performance features
1. Create a free Cloudflare account.
2. Add your domain to Cloudflare.
3. Update your registrar’s nameservers with Cloudflare’s nameservers.
4. Create the required Rechat DNS records in Cloudflare.
5. Enable Cloudflare SSL.
Cloudflare then manages certificate renewal automatically.
{% hint style="success" %}
Cloudflare requires no CSR or manual certificate installation. Your registrar still owns your domain.
{% endhint %}
#### Option 2: Delegate DNS management to Rechat
Rechat can manage your DNS configuration and SSL for your website.
Choose this option when you want Rechat to manage your website’s technical configuration.
{% hint style="info" %}
Coordinate future DNS changes with Rechat when we manage your DNS.
{% endhint %}
### DNS ownership best practices
Connecting a domain does not transfer its ownership.
For most customers, we recommend:
* Keep domain registration with your current registrar.
* Use Cloudflare for DNS management.
* Use Cloudflare’s free SSL.
This setup keeps you in control while reducing certificate maintenance.
### Frequently asked questions
#### Does Rechat generate CSRs?
No. Rechat does not generate CSRs for customer-managed SSL certificates.
#### Can Rechat install a certificate from GoDaddy or another provider?
No. Rechat does not install or manage certificates from third-party certificate authorities.
#### Do I need to buy an SSL certificate?
Usually, no. Cloudflare provisions and renews SSL certificates at no additional cost.
#### Why can’t I generate my own CSR?
A CSR must come from the server holding the certificate’s private key. Rechat does not support customer-provided certificates.
#### Will changing nameservers to Cloudflare transfer my domain?
No. Nameserver changes only move DNS management. Registration, billing, and ownership remain with your registrar.
#### Can I transfer my domain to Cloudflare?
Yes. Cloudflare offers domain registration. A transfer is not required for Cloudflare DNS or free SSL.
#### Which option should I choose?
| Option | Best for | Recommendation |
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------------- | --------------- |
| Cloudflare DNS and free SSL | Nearly all customers | **Recommended** |
| Rechat-managed DNS and SSL | Rechat-managed technical configuration | Supported |
---
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