Getting Started

This guide walks you through the essentials of using Short.io.

1. Create an account

1. Visit short.io and click Get started
2. Sign up with email or a social provider
3. Confirm your email if prompted

The free plan includes 1,000 branded links and 5 custom domains — no credit card required.

2. Add a custom domain

Branded links use your own domain instead of a generic shortener URL.

1. Open Settings → Domains in the dashboard
2. Click Add domain and enter your domain (e.g. links.yourcompany.com)
3. Add the DNS records shown in the dashboard:
   • CNAME pointing to Short.io, or
   • A record for apex domains
4. Wait for DNS propagation (usually a few minutes to a few hours)
5. SSL certificates are issued automatically once DNS is verified

3. Create your first link

1. Go to Links in the dashboard
2. Click Create link
3. Enter the destination URL
4. Choose your custom domain and optional custom slug
5. Click Save

Your branded short link is ready to share. View click analytics on the link detail page.

4. Explore more features

Next steps

• Review pricing plans to find the right tier
• Visit the Help Center for detailed guides
• Check system status for service health