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How to connect your domain to Searcle (DNS setup)?

Instructions for connecting your AI subdomain to the Searcle Content Hub.

Written by Yani Bu
Updated over 3 months ago

Who this is for

This article is for Searcle workspace users who need to connect a custom subdomain (for example, ai.yourcompany.com) to their Searcle Content Hub.

You don’t need deep DNS knowledge, but you do need access to your domain’s DNS settings - or help from someone who manages them.

What you’ll do

You’ll connect your domain to Searcle by adding two DNS records. This makes your content visible on the public web under your chosen subdomain.

Until this step is complete, your Searcle content will not be publicly accessible.

Before you start

Make sure you have:

  • Access to your domain’s DNS provider (such as Cloudflare, GoDaddy, or Namecheap), or

  • Someone who can add DNS records on your behalf (IT, web manager, agency)

You should already have chosen a subdomain in Searcle (for example, ai.yourcompany.com).

Where to find your DNS records in Searcle

Once you’re ready, go to Hosting in your Searcle workspace.

On this page, you’ll see two CNAME records provided by Searcle:

  1. Subdomain content record
    Connect your chosen subdomain (for example, ai.yourcompany.com) to Searcle’s servers.

  2. SSL verification record
    A special record that starts with an underscore (_). This allows Searcle to issue a secure HTTPS certificate for your subdomain.

Each record includes:

  • Type – always CNAME

  • Name – the subdomain name or verification string

  • Value – a unique target provided by Searcle (copy this exactly)

Provider-specific DNS guides

DNS setup steps vary slightly depending on where your domain is managed. Use the guide that matches your setup:

If you’re unsure which provider you’re using, check where your domain is registered or ask your web or IT team.

Add the DNS records

Most DNS providers follow the same general flow. If you’re unsure, you can safely forward these steps to your IT or web team.

Step 1: Open your DNS settings

  1. Log in to your domain registrar or DNS provider.

  2. Find the DNS settings for your main domain (for example, yourcompany.com).

  3. Choose Add record and select CNAME.

Step 2: Add the subdomain content record

  1. Type: CNAME

  2. Name / Host: Your chosen subdomain (for example, ai)

  3. Value / Target: Paste the value shown in Searcle

    • This usually ends in .geohq.ai

  4. TTL: Leave as default (often “Automatic”)

  5. Proxy / CDN:

    • If you’re using Cloudflare, set this to DNS Only (proxy off)

  6. Save the record.

Step 3: Add the SSL verification record

  1. Type: CNAME

  2. Name / Host: Copy the full underscore-prefixed value exactly (for example, _abc123…)

  3. Value / Target: Paste the provided verification value

    • This often looks like an AWS domain

  4. Proxy / CDN: Keep proxy off

  5. Save the record.

Verify your connection

After both records are added:

  1. Return to the Hosting page in Searcle.

  2. Select Verify DNS configuration.

If verification succeeds, your content will begin appearing on your subdomain—often within minutes.

DNS propagation timing

DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes up to 24–48 hours to fully propagate worldwide.

If verification fails at first:

  • Wait a bit and try again.

  • If it still doesn’t work after 24 hours, email [email protected] with a screenshot of your DNS settings so the team can help troubleshoot.

Safety notes

  • Do not remove existing DNS records.

    • Your main website usually relies on an A record for yourcompany.com. Leave it unchanged.

  • Only add the two CNAME records shown in Searcle.

Next steps

Once your domain is connected:

  • Your Searcle Content Hub will be publicly accessible on your subdomain.

  • You can start monitoring performance and managing content directly in your workspace.

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