Custom Domains & SSL

By default, a new store uses a myshopstore.myshopify.com address. A custom domain (like www.yourbrand.com) looks more professional and builds customer trust.

Why use a custom domain

By default, a new store uses a myshopstore.myshopify.com address. A custom domain (like www.yourbrand.com) looks more professional and builds customer trust.

You can buy a domain directly through Shopify or connect one you already own from another registrar like GoDaddy or Namecheap.

Real-life example: A myshopify.com address is like operating out of a shared co-working space address. A custom domain is your own signboard with your brand name on the building.

Buy directly in Shopify — Shopify manages DNS automatically
Connect an existing domain — you update DNS records manually
A custom domain is optional to start but recommended before real launch

Connecting an existing domain

To connect a domain bought elsewhere, you add specific A and CNAME records in your domain registrar's DNS settings, pointing traffic to Shopify's servers.

DNS changes can take a few hours to fully propagate worldwide, so domain connection isn't always instant — plan ahead of a launch date.

Real-life example: Connecting DNS is like updating a mail-forwarding request at the post office — you tell the world 'letters (traffic) addressed here should now go to this new building (Shopify)', and it takes a little time for every post office to update their records.

Typical DNS records for connecting a domain

Type: A
Host: @
Value: 23.227.38.65  (example — use Shopify's provided IP)

Type: CNAME
Host: www
Value: shops.myshopify.com

SSL and secure checkout

Shopify automatically issues and renews a free SSL certificate for every domain connected to your store, enabling HTTPS without any extra setup.

HTTPS is required for customer trust and is also a minor Google ranking factor — modern browsers warn visitors clearly when a site is not secure.

Real-life example: SSL is the padlock icon on a shop's front door — customers feel safe handing over payment details once they see it, and Shopify installs that lock for you automatically.

SSL is free and automatic on all Shopify plans
No manual certificate renewal needed
Always verify the padlock icon shows after connecting a new domain

Tip: Set your 'primary domain' correctly in Settings > Domains — this is the URL that customers ultimately land on and that search engines index.