Tag: branded short links

What is a branded short domain and how do I get one?
Ever wished for shorter, catchier, and on-brand links? Look no further. Branded Short Domains do just that. They take your long website links and turn them into compact, branded short links that pack a punch.

In this guide, we’ll reveal the secrets behind branded domains – what they are, why they matter, and how you can effortlessly get started. Let’s dive in and revolutionize your online presence, one link at a time.

What is a branded short domain?

A branded short domain is a customized and concise web address created from your domain name, designed to strengthen your brand’s identity in online communications.

In short, a branded domain is a way to transform long URLs into branded, memorable, and impactful short links that resonate with your audience.

Branded short link vs. branded short domain: What’s the difference?

Both branded short links and branded short domains provide more customized and memorable URLs compared to long, generic ones, the main distinction lies in whether you’re customizing the link portion only (branded short link) or also customizing the domain part (branded domain) to align with your brand’s identity.

Branded short domains offer a higher level of branding and control, but they require additional setup and configuration compared to branded short links.

Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into
branded short links that convert. Try Replug for free

How to set up a branded short domain?

With Replug, you can now transform your URLs into branded short domains, seamlessly integrating your brand identity into every interaction. Say goodbye to generic links and hello to a more memorable and trustworthy online presence.

Let’s dive in and take your brand to the next level of link engagement.

Set up the branded short domain using Replug:

Step no 01: Access the Replug Home, navigate to “Settings,” and select “Custom Domains” from the dropdown menu.

Step no 02: Click on “Add Domain” to add your custom domain for creating branded links.

Step no 03: Enter your Domain URL, set up Custom 404 redirection, and define the Branded Domain. Click “Connect” to proceed.
- Domain URL: Your branded or custom domain.
- 404 Redirect URL: Where users land on 404 pages.
- Branded Domain: Redirects users to the specified URL when they visit the root address of your brand’s domain.
Step no 04: To finalize the setup, you need to configure DNS records in your domain registrar’s settings. You have two options:
- CNAME (Canonical Name) Record: Point it to “rplg.co” and set HOST as “@” or “www.”
- A (Address) Record: Use the IP address “35.238.70.19” to point your root URL to the URL shortener.
For subdomains, such as “links.yourdomain.com” or “track.yourdomain.com,” use CNAME and A records accordingly.

Step no 05: After connecting your domain, Replug shows its status. You can also edit or delete custom domains as needed.

For detailed DNS setup instructions, Replug provides links to various domain registrars’ documentation, including Amazon Web Services, Namecheap, Cloudflare, cPanel, and HostGator.

Feel free to reach out to Replug’s support team if you have any questions or need assistance.

A complete link management solution
for marketing professionals & agencies. Try Replug for free

Why do you need to use a branded short domain?

Using a branded short domain offers several valuable benefits for individuals and businesses alike:
1. Enhanced brand identity: Branded domains allow you to incorporate your brand name or a related keyword directly into your shortened links. This reinforces your brand identity with every link you share, making your content more recognizable and memorable to your audience.
2. Consistent branding: Branded domains maintain a consistent brand presence across all online interactions. Whether it’s in social media posts, emails, or marketing campaigns, your audience sees your brand name prominently displayed in the links you share.
3. Improved click-through rates: Branded short domains are more visually appealing and professional-looking. This can lead to higher click-through rates as users are more likely to click on links that appear trustworthy and associated with a familiar brand.
4. Analytics and insights: Many branded short-domain services provide detailed analytics about link performance. You can gain insights into click rates, geographic locations of clicks, devices used, and more. This data helps you optimize your link-sharing strategies.
5. Flexibility and control: With a branded domain, you have the flexibility to customize your links based on different campaigns, promotions, or content types. You can also easily update or change the destination URLs without affecting the branding.
6. SEO benefits: Branded short domains may contribute to boosting overall domain authority. As these links are associated with your main domain, they can potentially provide a small SEO advantage.
7. Professionalism: Branded domains create a more professional image for your brand. Instead of using generic shortening services, you present your audience with tailored, branded links that reflect your commitment to quality.
FAQs on branded short domain

Why should I use a branded short domain?

Using a branded short domain reinforces your brand identity, increases link trustworthiness, and maintains consistent branding in your online communications. It also improves click-through rates and provides analytics insights.

Do I need technical skills to set up a branded domain?

While some technical knowledge might be helpful, many branded short-domain services offer user-friendly setup processes. They typically provide instructions for configuring DNS records to link your domain with the shortening service.

Can I still use a short domain if I don’t have a website?

Yes, you can still use a branded short domain even if you don’t have a website. You can set up a subdomain for this purpose, such as “links.yourdomain.com,” and link it to the shortening service.

Can I track the performance of branded short links?

Yes, most branded short-domain services offer analytics and tracking features. You can monitor click rates, locations of clicks, devices used, and more to assess the effectiveness of your links.

Are there any SEO benefits to using a branded domain?

While the direct impact is limited, using branded short domains can potentially contribute to boosting your domain authority. The links are associated with your main domain, which could have a small positive effect on SEO.
October 12, 2024
Branded Links vs. Short Links: Which is Right for Your Brand?
Have you ever shared an interesting post, recommended a funny video, or perhaps even critiqued an article that missed the mark? We’ve all been there. But what you might not realize is that the way you share these online treasures can significantly impact your brand.

If you’ve been using plain, generic short links to share content, it’s time to take a closer look. By doing so, you could inadvertently be promoting other brands instead of your own.

We’re going to cut through the noise and discuss the difference between branded vs. short links. We’ll help you understand the implications of your choice and how it can affect your brand’s online identity. So, let’s get straight to it!

What is a short link?

A short link, also known as a short URL, is a compressed version of a long web address or URL. Short links are created to simplify lengthy URLs, making them easier to share, remember, and use, especially in contexts where character limits are a concern, such as social media or printed materials.

Short links typically redirect users to the original, longer URL when clicked. They are especially useful for sharing links on platforms like Twitter, where character limits for a single tweet are in place. Instead of using a long and cumbersome URL, you can generate a short link that directs users to the intended web page.

What is a branded link?

A branded link, also known as a custom short link or a vanity URL, is a type of shortened URL that includes a brand’s or organization’s name or a custom keyword as part of the link. Unlike generic short links that use a random combination of characters and numbers, branded links are customized to reflect the brand’s identity, making them more recognizable and trustworthy to users.

Branded links are a fantastic choice for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their online branding, improve user engagement, and create a polished and trustworthy online presence.

Short vs. branded links: Which is better?

Branded links can indeed offer several advantages, especially when it comes to strengthening your brand identity and increasing user trust. They are valuable for businesses and individuals looking to create a cohesive online presence and improve user engagement.

The choice between branded links and short links eventually depends on your specific goals and the context in which you plan to use them. Let’s explore the benefits of each:

Branded links:
- Strong brand identity: Branded links reinforce your brand identity, incorporating your brand name or a custom keyword. This can boost brand recognition and user trust.
- Higher click-through rates: Branded links often have higher click-through rates as they appear more trustworthy and relevant to users.
- Enhanced user experience: They offer a user-friendly and memorable link, making it easier to recognize and share.
- Consistency: Branded links maintain a consistent brand image across different online platforms.
- Analytics: You can track the performance of branded links and gain valuable insights into user engagement.
Short links:
- Conciseness: Short links are compact and ideal for contexts with character limits like social media or text messages.
- Space-saving: They save space in printed materials, enhancing aesthetics and usability.
- Universal use: Short links are versatile and can be used for various types of content.
The choice depends on your priorities:

Branded Links: If strengthening your brand identity, increasing trust, and improving user recognition are important to you, branded links are an excellent choice. They excel in marketing campaigns and content sharing where branding matters.

Short Links: If brevity and saving space are paramount, short links are suitable, especially in platforms with character constraints. They shine when the focus is on the content rather than the link.

Popular brands are using branded links:

Let’s take a look at how some of the most popular brands use branded links to their advantage:
1. The New York Times – nyti.ms
The renowned newspaper, The New York Times, simplifies sharing long article URLs on social media and beyond by using the branded link nyti.ms. This branded link not only shortens the URL but also reinforces the brand’s identity with every click.
1. Nike – swoo.sh
When it comes to sports and lifestyle, Nike is a household name. They utilize the branded link swoo.sh to create a memorable link for their products and promotions. This reinforces the Nike brand with every shared link.
1. Amazon – amzn.to
E-commerce giant Amazon opts for the branded link amzn.to to shorten product URLs. This not only saves space in printed materials but also keeps the focus on their products rather than the URL itself.
1. Coca-Cola – cokeurl.com
Coca-Cola, a global beverage icon, maintains brand consistency by using branded links like cokeurl.com. This approach ensures that every link shared aligns with their brand image.
1. Starbucks – sbux.co
Coffee giant Starbucks utilizes branded links with the domain sbux.co to simplify the sharing of promotional content. This reinforces their brand identity and keeps their links looking clean and professional.

Boost ROI with
branded URLs!
Enhance your marketing campaigns by creating shareable, trackable, and fully multi-purpose customizable branded URLs.
Try Replug for free

How to create short branded links?

Are you ready to start using branded links for your own brand? Replug, a powerful URL shortening and branding tool, simplifies the process of creating custom short branded links. Let’s walk through the steps to create these links and amplify your brand’s reach.

Adding your custom domain

The first step in creating branded links with Replug is to incorporate your custom domain. While Replug provides a default shortener domain (rplg.co), using your custom domain strengthens your brand identity and reputation.

Also read: What is a Branded Short Domain and How Do I Get One?

Follow these steps to add your custom domain:

Step 1: Access custom domains
- Open your Replug dashboard and navigate to “Settings.”
- Select “Custom Domains” from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Add a new domain
- Click on “Add Domain” to begin setting up your custom short URL.
Step 3: Connect the custom domain
- On the next screen, provide essential details, including your custom domain and settings like the 404 redirect URL and branded domain.
- Click “Connect” to add your custom domain to your Replug account.
Step 4: Manage your custom domain
- After successfully connecting your custom domain, you can manage it within your Replug account. Check connectivity status, edit domain settings, or delete domains as needed.
Note: To complete the domain setup, don’t forget to point the CNAME in your domain registrar’s DNS. Depending on your registrar, you might need to use “@” or “www” as the HOST value.

With your custom domain integrated into Replug, you’re now ready to create your custom-branded link. Here’s how:

Step 5: Add a new link
- Once logged into your Replug dashboard, select “Select your campaign” to start a new campaign.
- You’ll find the custom domain you just created within your campaigns.
- Paste the original link you want to shorten in the “URL to shorten” section.
- Click “Create” to generate a custom shortened URL.
Also read: How to Create a Short URL: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 6: Customize your shortened URL
- Enjoy the flexibility to customize your shortened URL. Select an alias or keyword to incorporate into the link, making it memorable and aligned with your brand.
- Click “Update” to generate your custom shortened URL.
Step 7: Share and monitor
- Utilize your custom-shortened URL in marketing materials, social media posts, emails, or any content where you want to promote your link.
- Monitor the performance of your custom shortened URLs using Replug’s comprehensive analytics and tracking features, which provide insights into clicks, user location, referrals, and more.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into
branded short links that convert. Try Replug for free

FAQs

What is the difference between a branded link and a short link?

A branded link includes your brand name or a custom keyword, making it more recognizable and trustworthy. Short links, on the other hand, are simply shortened versions of long URLs, often generated randomly.

Why should I consider using branded links for my brand or business?

Branded links enhance your brand identity, boost user trust, and increase brand recognition. They also offer a more user-friendly and memorable link for sharing.

Are branded links more trustworthy than short links?

Branded links tend to be perceived as more trustworthy by users because they include a recognizable brand name, which can reduce suspicions of spam or phishing.

Can I track the performance of branded links, and how can I do that?

Yes, you can track branded link performance. Most branded link services offer analytics and tracking features to monitor clicks, geographic data, and more.
October 5, 2023
How to add a link to your Instagram story?
Instagram has made it easier than ever to share valuable resources and information with your followers. You can now add links to your Instagram Stories, regardless of your account size. Whether you’re a business, creator, or an individual, this feature empowers you to connect with your audience in new ways.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to add a link to your Instagram story, enabling you to share what matters most to you. Let’s get started.

Why do you need to add a link to your Instagram story?

Adding a link to your Instagram story serves several important purposes:
1. Share resources: You can direct your followers to external websites, articles, or resources related to the content of your story. This is valuable for sharing information, promoting products or services, or providing additional context.
2. Drive traffic: If you have a website, blog, or online store, adding a link to your story can help drive traffic to your site. This is essential for businesses and content creators looking to expand their online presence.
3. Enhance engagement: Links in stories can prompt user interaction. When viewers tap on the link, it provides a way for them to engage further with your content, whether it’s to learn more, shop, or explore related content.
4. Promote events: If you’re hosting an event, webinar, or live stream, you can use links in stories to invite your audience and provide event details or registration links.
5. Support causes: Advocates and change-makers can use links to share information about social causes, fundraisers, or petitions, helping raise awareness and drive action.
6. Connect with your audience: Adding links enables you to offer your followers valuable resources, making your content more relevant and engaging.
Turn your bio links into click-boosting machines

Drive up to 2× more clicks than plain URLs

Share multiple destinations with one link

Turn every profile visit into traffic

Create bio links free

How to add a link to your Instagram story?

Here’s how to add a link to your Instagram story:

Step 1: Open Instagram

Ensure you have the Instagram app installed on your mobile device. Log in to your Instagram account if you’re not already logged in.

Step 2: Access your story creator

Tap your profile picture or swipe right from your home feed to access the story creator.

Step 3: Capture or upload content

At the bottom of the screen, you’ll see options to capture a photo or record a video using your device’s camera. Alternatively, you can swipe up or tap on the gallery icon to upload existing content from your camera roll. Choose the content you want to add to your story.

Step 4: Access the sticker tool

After capturing or uploading your content, you can enhance your story with various stickers and features. To add a link to your story, tap the “Sticker” icon from the top navigation bar.

Also read: How to add YouTube links to Instagram story?

Step 5: Add the link sticker

In the sticker options, locate and tap on the “Link” sticker. This sticker is used to add the link you want to share with your followers.

Step 6: Enter your desired link

A pop-up window will appear, allowing you to enter the web link you want to share. Type or paste the URL into the provided space.

Step 7: Confirm and customize

After entering the link, tap “Done” to confirm. You can also customize the appearance of the Link sticker by tapping on it, which may allow you to choose from different color variations or styles, depending on Instagram’s features at the time.

Step 8: Place the sticker on your story

Now, you can place the Link sticker on your story. Simply drag and drop it onto your image or video, just like you would with other stickers.

Also read: How To Add A Instagram Link In Bio?

Step 9: Publish your story

Once you’re satisfied with how your story looks with the added link, you can proceed to share it with your followers. Tap the “Your Story” button at the bottom of the screen to post your story.

Step 10: Viewers interact with the link

When someone views your story and taps on the Link sticker, they will be redirected to the web page you’ve shared.

Important Note: Instagram has certain safety measures in place. New accounts and accounts that repeatedly share harmful content or violate community guidelines may not have access to the Link sticker feature. Be sure to follow Instagram’s guidelines and policies to maintain access to this and other features.

Replug: Simplify your social media link management

Managing links on social media platforms like Instagram can be a crucial part of your online strategy. Replug is a comprehensive link management and bio-link tool designed to simplify this process.

With Replug, you can create shortened, trackable links that are perfect for Instagram bio links or sharing in your Stories. It provides valuable analytics to help you measure the performance of your links, including click-through rates and audience engagement data.

Whether you’re a marketer, business owner, or content creator, Replug can enhance your social media marketing efforts by making link management effortless and effective.

Try Replug today and take control of your links to maximize your online presence.

A complete link management solution
for marketing professionals & agencies. Try Replug for free

FAQs on adding a link to Instagram Story

Can I add links to any type of Instagram Story, including photos and videos?

Yes, you can add links to both photos and videos in your Instagram Stories.

Is there a limit to the number of links I can add to a single Instagram Story?

You can typically add one link per Instagram Story. If you want to share multiple links, consider creating multiple stories or using the link in the bio feature.

Who can add links to their Instagram Stories?

Instagram has expanded access to this feature, so now, users of all account sizes, including businesses, creators, and individuals, can add links to their stories.

Are there any restrictions on the types of links I can share in my Instagram Story?

Instagram has guidelines in place and links that violate their Community Guidelines may be restricted. It’s important to ensure your content adheres to Instagram’s policies.

Can I track how many people clicked on the link in my Instagram Story?

Yes, Instagram provides insights on the number of clicks your link receives. You can view this data by swiping up your story.
September 7, 2023
Track your success: How to create a tracking link?

Link tracking is essential for businesses looking to improve their marketing efforts and understand their audience’s engagement. By monitoring clicks on specific links within a marketing campaign, businesses can gather valuable data and make informed decisions that lead to increased conversions and a better return on investment.

For example, imagine a business has created a landing page, an email marketing campaign, or a newsletter to promote its product or service. These marketing efforts require links that redirect the audience to the offered product or service. To ensure the success of future marketing communications and interactions, the business needs to know which links are being clicked by the audience.

This information is valuable for businesses as it reveals engagement statistics and helps evaluate the marketing campaign’s success. By tracking clicks on specific links, businesses can gather data on the number of clicks, the location of clicks, and the time of clicks, which can then be used to improve future marketing efforts and increase conversions.

Also Read: How to Create a perfect Call-To-Action (CTA) For Maximum Conversion

How to Create a Tracking Link with Replug: Step-by-Step Process

Shortening URLs for link tracking with Replug is a quick and simple process. Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Sign in to Replug or create an account for free.

Step 2: Select the desired campaign on the main dashboard or create a new one in a few seconds.

Note: To create a new tracking link, you must create a campaign or select an existing one.

Step 3: Paste the link you want to track in the “URL to shorten” section below the “select your campaign” section.

Note: You can also add the UTM parameters to your link. Learn how to add UTM parameters.

Step 4: Click the create button to create your shortened URL.

Step 5: Now, you have the shortened version of your link. Click the edit icon to customize your link.

Step 6: Click the update button after editing the link, and you’ve your tracking URL ready.

[branded_short_links]

Check the tracking parameters:

Step 7: Go to the main dashboard, click manage and select Replug links from the drop-down menu.

Step 8: You’ll find your newly created link in the Replug links section. Click the three dots at the opposite side of the link, then click view stats.

Step 9: You can view the tracking parameters, which include clicks, unique clicks, conversion, and conversion rate.

Note: You can also view the detailed stats on this page by scrolling down. For clarification, watch the video below.

Also Read: What Is A Vanity URL & How To Track It?

FAQs

What is a tracking URL?

A tracking URL is a hyperlink that tracks clicks on a specific link. It usually contains additional parameters and codes used by tracking software to track the clicks’ source, location, and behavior. The information collected through tracking URLs can be used for various purposes, such as website analytics, marketing campaigns, and conversion tracking.

How do tracking links work?

Tracking links work by redirecting clicks from the original link to a tracking link that contains additional parameters. When a user clicks on the tracking link, the tracking software records the information about the click, such as the source, location, and behavior of the user.

The tracking software then sends the user to the original link while keeping a record of the information gathered through the tracking link. This information can then be analyzed to improve marketing strategies, track conversions, and gather insights into user behavior. The tracking process is typically transparent to the user and occurs in the background without affecting the user experience.

You may also like:

What Are Tracking Pixels?

How to Create a QR code for a URL?

Campaign Tracking: Data-Driven Tools for Marketers

March 13, 2023
How to change YouTube URL name using a URL shortener tool?

You can shorten any Youtube URL name using a URL shortener. URL shorteners are useful tools for creating shorter, more manageable versions of long URLs.

No one likes to click a URL link with random characters. But when you make your URL look more professional and authentic. Then, you will get more clicks, and it will be easier for users to recognize what the link is about.

Create customized URLs that are visually appealing and help brand your content. Therefore, creating short custom URLs can make URLs easier to share, manage, and improve the branding of your content. This can be useful if you are promoting your YouTube channel.

Here’s how to change the Youtube URL name using Replug:

Step 1: Create a Replug account or sign in.

Step 2: Find the desired campaign on the main dashboard, or create a new one.

Note: If you need help creating a new campaign, check out this guide: “Create a campaign in seconds.”

Step 3: Paste the URL in the “URL to shorten” section below “Select your campaign.”

Step 4: Click the create button to see your new URL.

Step 5: Look at the newly shortened version of your Youtube URL.

Step 6: Customize the URL by clicking the edit icon opposite the URL.

Step 7: Type your desired URL slug and click update at the bottom, and your new Replug URL is ready to share.

[branded_short_links]

Create deep links to increase Youtube views using a URL shortener

Deep links are shortened links directly open a specific location within a mobile app. This, in return, improves the user journey experience and increases the chance of conversions.

YouTubers can also create deep links using a URL shortener tool. This tool can help influencers, brands, and others to get more views and clicks on their videos by delivering an unbreakable experience.

For example, sharing a deep link will allow users to directly watch the video you intended without the hassle of signing up, logging in, or even searching the video on Youtube.
Deep linking is not only limited to Youtube. These links are helpful when sharing links to specific social media content or a specific product on your online store and other platforms.

To create a deep link using Replug, you’ll need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Sign in to Replug and click the drop-down icon in the top right corner.

Step 2: Choose deep links from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: Deep link categories page will open. Choose a category since, in this case, a deep link is needed for the YouTube video. So, here we choose video.

Step 4: Select Youtube from the video category page since we will create a deep link for a Youtube video.

Step 5: The next step is to select the playlist, since this video belongs to our YouTube playlist, and click create deep link.

Step 6: A new page will open where you need to select the campaign.

Step 7: Paste the URL in the “URL” section below “Select your campaign.”

Step 8: Click the save link button to create the link.

Step 9: Now click the edit button to customize your new link.

Step 10: Type your new URL slug and click save.

You can download your custom deep link as a QR code and share it on any social media platform you like.

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December 28, 2022