How do I set up TLS and custom domains on app hosting?

To set up TLS (HTTPS) and custom domains on app hosting, the exact steps depend on the platform, but the overall process is usually:

1. Choose or create a domain

   • Example: example.com or app.example.com

2. Add the domain in your hosting provider’s dashboard

   • Go to your app/project settings
   • Find Custom domains, Domains, or SSL/TLS

3. Verify domain ownership

   • Your provider will usually ask you to add a DNS record:
     • TXT record for verification, or
     • CNAME/A record pointing your domain to the hosting service

4. Configure DNS

   • At your domain registrar/DNS provider:
     • For subdomains like app.example.com, often add a CNAME
     • For apex/root domains like example.com, often add A/ALIAS/ANAME records depending on support

5. Wait for DNS propagation

   • This can take a few minutes to 24–48 hours

6. Enable or wait for automatic TLS

   • Many hosting platforms auto-provision TLS certificates (often via Let’s Encrypt)
   • Once DNS is correct, the provider will issue and attach the certificate automatically

7. Force HTTPS

   • Turn on “redirect HTTP to HTTPS” if available
   • Confirm your app loads securely at https://yourdomain

Common DNS record patterns

• Subdomain
  • app.example.com -> CNAME -> yourapp.hostingprovider.com
• Root domain
  • example.com -> A record(s) -> hosting IP(s) or ALIAS/ANAME if supported

Important tips

• Make sure there are no conflicting DNS records for the same hostname.
• If using a root/apex domain, verify whether your DNS provider supports ALIAS/ANAME; otherwise use the host’s recommended setup.
• TLS cert issuance can fail if DNS is wrong or the domain is still pointing elsewhere.

If you tell me which app hosting platform you’re using (for example Firebase, Vercel, Netlify, AWS Amplify, Cloud Run, App Engine, etc.), I can give you the exact click-by-click setup.