Vercel Domains

Product Introduction

1. Vercel Domains is a domain management platform integrated directly into the Vercel ecosystem, enabling users to search, register, and configure domain names for web projects. It provides real-time domain availability checks, transparent pricing aligned with registry costs, and automated DNS configuration for deployments hosted on Vercel. The service eliminates the need for third-party registrars by unifying domain management with frontend deployment workflows.

2. The core value lies in streamlining domain operations for developers by combining domain registration, DNS management, and deployment automation into a single interface. It reduces administrative overhead through instant domain activation for Vercel-hosted projects and maintains cost parity with top-level domain registries. This integration ensures domains are production-ready immediately after purchase without manual configuration.

Main Features

1. Instant domain availability verification uses real-time queries to global DNS registries, displaying results within 2 seconds via Vercel's optimized API infrastructure. The system supports 500+ TLDs (Top-Level Domains) including new extensions like .dev and .app, with automatic SSL certificate provisioning for all registered domains through Let's Encrypt integration.

2. At-cost pricing structure eliminates markup by directly passing registry fees to users, with transparent breakdowns showing annual renewal costs and ICANN fees. Bulk domain management tools enable batch operations for DNS record updates, expiration monitoring, and auto-renewal toggles across multiple projects simultaneously.

3. Seamless Vercel integration automatically configures A, AAAA, and CNAME records for deployments, with subdomain wildcard support (*.yourdomain.com) for preview deployments. Domain transfers from external registrars are facilitated through standardized EPP code workflows, with zero downtime during migration via phased DNS propagation.

Problems Solved

1. Eliminates fragmented workflows between domain registrars, DNS providers, and hosting platforms by providing unified control. Developers no longer need to manually synchronize DNS records across multiple services when deploying updates or scaling applications.

2. Targets full-stack developers and DevOps teams building Jamstack architectures requiring rapid domain provisioning. Particularly benefits agencies managing client projects and startups needing instant domain activation for time-sensitive product launches.

3. Addresses use cases like spinning up temporary domains for staging environments, migrating legacy projects to Vercel's infrastructure, and maintaining large domain portfolios with centralized expiration alerts. Solves DNS configuration errors through automated record validation against deployment requirements.

Unique Advantages

1. Native integration with Vercel's Edge Network provides faster DNS propagation (under 90 seconds globally) compared to traditional registrars. Deployment-triggered DNS updates ensure immediate consistency between domain settings and live applications.

2. Privacy-focused design includes free WHOIS privacy protection across all compatible TLDs and GDPR-compliant data handling. Advanced security features include DNSSEC auto-configuration and two-factor authentication enforcement for domain transfers.

3. Competitive edge stems from Vercel's infrastructure optimizations, offering 99.99% domain service uptime SLA and direct peering relationships with major registries. Unlike generic registrars, provides deployment analytics integration showing domain-specific traffic patterns and performance metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does domain transfer to Vercel Domains work? Transfers are initiated by entering the domain name and authorization code from your current registrar, followed by automated verification of unlock status and administrative contact approval. Vercel handles all EPP code negotiations with no transfer fees beyond the registry's renewal cost.

2. Can I use domains purchased elsewhere with Vercel deployments? Yes, through manual DNS configuration by adding Vercel's nameservers (ns1.vercel-dns.com and ns2.vercel-dns.com) or setting A/CNAME records. However, native integration features like auto-SSL and deployment-triggered updates require using Vercel as the registrar.

3. What TLDs are supported and how are prices determined? Vercel supports all ICANN-accredited TLDs with pricing updated daily based on registry wholesale rates. Country-code domains (ccTLDs) include local compliance features like mandatory VAT for EU-based .eu domains and registrant validation for .au domains.

4. How does domain privacy protection work? Vercel replaces WHOIS contact details with proxy information while maintaining legal compliance, routing all communication through secure channels. This applies automatically to all eligible domains without additional cost.

5. Are bulk domain management features available? Enterprise plans offer CSV-based domain imports, expiration date sorting, and API endpoints for programmatic management. Teams can set granular permissions for domain modifications while maintaining centralized billing.