🌐 Using a Root Domain via Cloudflare

Before you begin: 🛑 We strongly recommend using a subdomain (like links.mylinksite.com) for LinkFox. If you’re using a root domain (like mylinksite.com), and your provider doesn't support CNAMEs at the root — this guide is for you.

🧠 What’s This All About?

LinkFox needs a CNAME record to connect your domain. Some providers don’t allow CNAMEs on root domains, but Cloudflare does — using something called CNAME flattening. This guide shows you how to move your DNS over to Cloudflare so your root domain works seamlessly.

🧰 What You’ll Need

• Access to your domain registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, etc.)
• A free Cloudflare account → https://dash.cloudflare.com

📘 Step-by-Step: Moving DNS to Cloudflare

🔹 Step 1: Create Your Cloudflare Account

1. Go to https://dash.cloudflare.com/sign-up
2. Create a free account
3. Once logged in, click “Add a Site”
4. Enter your domain (e.g., mylinksite.com)
5. Choose the Free Plan when prompted

🔹 Step 2: Copy Your Current DNS Records

Cloudflare will try to import your domain’s existing DNS records automatically.

✅ Double-check that:

• Your MX (email) records are there
• Any other key records (A, TXT, etc.) are listed

If something’s missing:

• Open your old registrar’s DNS settings
• Manually copy anything important into Cloudflare

⚠️ Do not delete MX records if you use email with your domain.

🔹 Step 3: Add the CNAME Record for LinkFox

Here’s the key step:

1. Go to the DNS tab inside Cloudflare
2. Click “Add Record”
3. Use the following settings:

✅ Cloudflare will flatten this CNAME so it works at the root level.

🔹 Step 4: Update Nameservers at Your Registrar

Cloudflare will now give you 2 nameservers, something like:

1. Log into your domain registrar
2. Find your DNS or Nameserver settings
3. Replace your current nameservers with the ones from Cloudflare
4. Save your changes

🕓 Changes may take up to 24 hours, though it’s often much quicker.

🔹 Step 5: Confirm Activation

Once your nameservers update:

• You’ll get a confirmation email from Cloudflare
• Your domain will now be fully managed inside Cloudflare
• The root-level CNAME you created will now point to LinkFox correctly 🎉

✅ You’re Done!

You can now:

• Use your root domain (like mylinksite.com) with LinkFox
• Enjoy custom branding, full DNS control, and built-in security via Cloudflare

🛟 Common Questions

Q: Will my email still work? Yes — just make sure your MX records are copied into Cloudflare before switching nameservers.

Q: What if my site breaks or email stops working? Check your DNS settings in Cloudflare — make sure everything was copied correctly (especially A records, MX, and redirects).

Q: Is Cloudflare really free? Yes! Their Free Plan includes full DNS, CNAME flattening, and SSL — perfect for most users.

TL;DR

Move your DNS to Cloudflare → Add a CNAME pointing to linkfox.us → Switch nameservers → Your root domain now works with LinkFox! ⚡ Simple, secure, and no coding needed.