Why it matters
Custom domains control how your messages look to customers across email, campaigns, and text messages. Using your own domain improves trust, branding, and deliverability. Whippy gives you two ways to use domains: you can buy one directly for a fast, managed setup, or connect a domain you already own for more control.
Key Concepts
Custom domain: A domain you use in Whippy instead of the default whippymail.com. It can be used for sending emails and creating branded links.
Links setup: Allows your domain to be used in campaigns and text messages for branded short links.
Email setup: Allows your domain to send and receive emails through Whippy.
Whippy-managed domain: A domain purchased through Whippy where setup and configuration are handled automatically.
Third-party domain: A domain you own outside of Whippy and connect manually.
Subdomain: A variation of your main domain (for example, sms.yourcompany.com) used separately for messaging.
DNS records: Configuration entries added at your domain provider to connect your domain to Whippy services.
Step-by-Step: Choose How to Use a Domain
Decide how you want to use your domain:
For sending emails
For branded links in campaigns or text messages
Or both
Choose how to set up your domain:
Buy a new domain in Whippy
Add an existing domain or subdomain
Complete setup based on your choice:
Whippy-managed domains require no manual configuration
Third-party domains require DNS setup
Wait for setup to complete before using the domain in channels or campaigns.
How Domains Are Used in Whippy
Emails
Send emails from a custom domain instead of
whippymail.comControl the sender address (for example, sales@yourcompany.com)
Receive replies directly in Whippy when configured correctly
Campaigns and Text Messages
Use your domain to create branded links
Replace generic links with recognizable, trusted URLs
Improve click-through rates and consistency across messaging
Buy vs Add a Domain
Buy a Domain in Whippy
Fastest setup
No DNS configuration required
Whippy handles domain management and email setup
Best for users who want a simple, managed experience
Add Your Own Domain
Use a domain you already own
Requires manual DNS configuration
More control over your domain setup
Best for teams with existing domains or IT support
Subdomains Explained
You can use a subdomain instead of your main domain (for example, mail.yourcompany.com)
This is recommended for email sending to avoid affecting your primary domain
Subdomains can be used for both Whippy-managed and third-party setups
If the main domain is managed by Whippy, subdomains are handled automatically
Setup and Timing Expectations
Whippy-managed domains: Typically configured within minutes to a few hours
Third-party domains: Can take up to 24 hours due to DNS verification
Email setup may take longer than link setup due to external verification processes
Tips and Best Practices
Use a dedicated domain or subdomain for email sending to protect your main domain reputation
Keep your sender address and sending domain aligned to avoid display issues
Use branded domains in campaigns and text messages to improve trust
Choose Whippy-managed domains if you want the simplest setup
Choose third-party domains if you need full control or already own a domain
Troubleshooting
Issue | Possible Cause | Fix |
Domain is active but not usable | Email or link setup not complete | Check individual statuses and finish setup |
Domain not verifying | DNS records missing or incorrect | Recheck DNS configuration at your provider |
Emails show “via whippymail.com” | Sender address does not match sending domain | Align sender address with configured domain |
Replies not received in Whippy | Email routing not configured correctly | Review channel sender and domain setup |
Setup taking longer than expected | DNS propagation delay | Wait up to 24 hours |