Step-by-step guide: setting up a custom domain name for your Bluesky account

Using a custom domain name on Bluesky is a powerful way to personalize your profile, enhance your branding, and strengthen your online presence. Whether you’re showcasing your unique identity or building a consistent brand across platforms, this guide will walk you through setting up a custom domain name seamlessly.

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform designed to give users greater control over their online identity. Built on the AT Protocol, Bluesky offers an open framework that enables users to personalize their presence in ways that traditional social networks cannot.

Bluesky empowers individuals and businesses alike to connect in meaningful ways while maintaining ownership of their identity and content. It’s a perfect solution for those who value flexibility, authenticity, and innovation in the digital space.

By pairing Bluesky with a custom domain name, you can take control of your handle, improve your branding, and enhance your credibility—whether you’re a solopreneur, micro-business owner, or creative professional.

Benefits of using a custom domain name for Bluesky

Using a custom domain name on Bluesky is a smart choice for personal and professional branding, offering unique advantages tailored to the platform’s decentralized approach:

• Improved branding: Stand out with a professional and memorable handle that reflects your personal identity or business. Your domain name becomes a key part of your online presence.
• Easier recognition: A custom domain handle (e.g., @yourdomain.store) is easy to remember, making it simpler for others to find and connect with you.
• Credibility: A custom domain handle signals professionalism and trust, especially important for solopreneurs, micro-businesses, and creatives showcasing their work.
• Self-verification: Your domain name acts as a secure way to verify your identity or brand on Bluesky, reinforcing authenticity on this decentralized platform.

Bluesky’s unique framework allows users to personalize their presence further by choosing domain names that reflect their goals and brand values. Consider both sides of the dot when selecting a domain name:

• Highlight your work or services: TLDs like .store, .agency, or .design can showcase your expertise or business focus.
• Showcase personal elements: TLDs like .pro, .fan, or .ski can represent your passions, hobbies, or professional achievements.

A custom domain on Bluesky helps you create a unique and lasting impression, perfectly suited to the platform’s decentralized and user-focused approach.

What you need to set up a custom domain on Bluesky

Before you start setting up your custom domain name for Bluesky, ensure you have the following in place:

An active Bluesky account

If you’re not already on Bluesky, visit Bluesky to sign up and create your profile.

A trusted registrar

Register a domain name through a reliable registrar like Name.com. Name.com offers an intuitive domain name search tool to help you find a domain that aligns with your brand or interests. 

Think about how your handle will represent you or your brand. Examples include:

• @yourbusiness.store for an e-commerce brand.
• @johndoe.design for a designer or creative.
• @traveladventures.ski for travel enthusiasts.

By thinking through these essentials ahead of time, you’ll be ready to seamlessly connect your domain name to Bluesky and elevate your online presence.

Instructions for setting up a custom domain on Bluesky

Step 1: Purchase a custom domain name

Visit name.com/bluesky to register your domain name.

 

Step 2: Access your Bluesky account settings

Log in to your Bluesky account. Navigate to the Settings section and select the following:

Click “Account”

Click “Handle”

Click “I have my own domain”

Step 3: Obtain the verification TXT record

Bluesky will provide a unique TXT record for verification. Copy the TXT record details for the next step.

Step 4: Update your domain name’s DNS settings

Log in to your domain registrar (e.g., Name.com) and navigate to your domain name’s DNS settings or zone file editor. 

Add a TXT record using the following details:

• Type: TXT
• Name/Host: Enter the domain you just registered (e.g., yourdomain.com or yourdomain.pro)
• Answer: Paste in the Bluesky verification code you copied 
• TTL: 3600 seconds (default)

Step 5: Verify your domain name on Bluesky

Return to your Bluesky account. Click Verify to confirm ownership of your domain name.

Step 6: Configure your Bluesky handle

Update your Bluesky handle to use your custom domain name (e.g., @yourdomain.store). Save your changes and confirm the setup.

Troubleshooting common issues with custom domains on Bluesky

If you encounter issues during setup, don’t worry. Here are some quick tips:

1. Keep in mind that propagation may take up to 24–48 hours to take effect. 
2. Double-check all DNS record details – even a small typo will prevent your domain name from being confirmed
3. Still stuck? Contact Name.com support via chat or ticket submission, or reach out to Bluesky support for further assistance.

Build your Bluesky brand with Name.com

Setting up a custom domain name for your Bluesky account is an excellent way to enhance your online presence and establish a personal or professional brand. With a custom domain name, you’ll enjoy better branding, credibility, and recognition on Bluesky.

Ready to start? Visit name.com/bluesky to find the perfect domain name for your profile. If you need help, our support team is available 24/7 via chat or ticket submission at name.com/support.