How to Configure a Custom Domain in Azure: Step-by-Step Guide

To configure a custom domain in Azure, first add your domain to the Azure App Service under Custom domains. Then, update your domain's DNS records to point to the Azure app's IP or CNAME as instructed. Finally, optionally bind an SSL certificate to secure your custom domain.

Syntax

Configuring a custom domain in Azure involves these main steps:

• Add custom domain: Register your domain in Azure App Service.
• Update DNS records: Create A or CNAME records pointing to Azure.
• Bind SSL certificate: Secure your domain with HTTPS.

Each step requires specific inputs like domain name, DNS record values, and certificate details.

bash

az webapp config hostname add --resource-group <resource-group> --webapp-name <app-name> --hostname <custom-domain>

Example

This example shows how to add a custom domain www.example.com to an Azure App Service named myapp in resource group mygroup. It also explains the DNS update needed.

bash

az webapp config hostname add --resource-group mygroup --webapp-name myapp --hostname www.example.com

Output

Hostname www.example.com added to webapp myapp

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when configuring custom domains in Azure include:

• Not verifying domain ownership by missing required DNS records.
• Using incorrect DNS record types or values, causing domain not to resolve.
• Forgetting to bind SSL certificates, leaving the site unsecured.
• Delays in DNS propagation causing temporary access issues.

Always double-check DNS entries and wait for propagation before testing.

bash

## Wrong DNS record example (using A record with wrong IP)
# DNS A record points to incorrect IP

## Correct DNS record example
# For www.example.com, create CNAME record pointing to myapp.azurewebsites.net

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Details
1	Add custom domain	Use Azure CLI or portal to add your domain to App Service
2	Update DNS	Create A or CNAME record as instructed by Azure
3	Verify domain	Azure checks DNS to confirm ownership
4	Bind SSL	Upload or create SSL certificate for HTTPS
5	Test	Access your app via custom domain securely

Key Takeaways

Add your custom domain in Azure App Service before updating DNS.

Update DNS records correctly with A or CNAME as Azure requires.

Verify domain ownership by confirming DNS propagation.

Bind an SSL certificate to secure your custom domain with HTTPS.

Allow time for DNS changes to propagate before testing access.