How to Mask a Domain

How to Mask a Domain

Mask URL

There are 2 options to mask a URL:
1. Using embed code.
2. Using DNS subdomain.

Embed code:

How exactly do I use it? 

Log in to your DCatalog account. Click on the “Embed” button for the catalog you want to use.


This will launch a pop-up with a tab for “HTML Embed” and “HTML Masking.” Click the tab for “HTML Masking," then click the button to download.



Once you download the file, there are a couple of ways to go:

For subdirectory (www.yourcomany.com/subdirectory):

-You will then go to your web-server and host the downloaded Masking file in the folder of the subdirectory.
-Creating a folder is an option and will allow you to customize the domain where your catalog will be housed.
-You can then upload your “HTML Masking” download. This is not an applicable to CMS sites (like WordPress).
-Save your work and see your new link to your digital edition. Once clicked it should take you to a full screen version of your digital edition.

What if I want to change my domain name?


Feel free to! We give you control over everything. Once you have downloaded the “HTML Masking” you can put your catalog anywhere you want. Change the domain, use a special domain; it’s entirely up to you.

Does using “HTML Masking” mean that I will host publications on my own server now?


No, all your publications are still hosted on our cloud servers. Even though the domain is specific to you, your publications will be directed from our optimized servers.

Using DNS


This section will guide you through the process of masking a domain using DNS. Making the default domain will make your digital edition personalized to your brand and company; it will help to create consistent branding and make your content more visible in search engines.

In order to mask the digital edition domain, you must own a domain registered with an ICANN-Accredited Registrar. Second, you must also be able to customize your DNS records. 

Domain Masking requires a "CNAME" record pointing the domain to "dcviewerproduction.dcatalog.com". If you are unsure how to do this, please contact the IT team for assistance. This process can be difficult so read on to learn more.

- Get the short link from the admin, for instance:
https://example.dcatalog.com/v/ExampleContent/

2) Create a subdomain with the CNAME: dcviewerproduction.dcatalog.com. 

3) The short link should work with your domain: 
https://example.yourdomain.com/v/ExampleContent/

Let us know if you have any additional questions!

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