Gitlab Pages custom domain SSL

2 min read 07-10-2024

Secure Your GitLab Pages with a Custom Domain and SSL

GitLab Pages is a fantastic way to host your static websites directly from your GitLab repository. However, for a professional and secure online presence, you'll likely want to use a custom domain and implement SSL encryption. This article will guide you through the process of setting up a custom domain and SSL for your GitLab Pages website.

The Problem: Unsecured Website and Lack of Custom Branding

Imagine you've just built a beautiful website using GitLab Pages, filled with valuable content and eye-catching design. However, when visitors access your website, they see a generic GitLab URL (e.g., https://username.gitlab.io/project-name/) and a warning that the connection is not secure. This undermines user trust and makes your website look unprofessional.

Setting Up a Custom Domain and SSL with GitLab Pages

Here's a step-by-step guide to securing your GitLab Pages website:

1. Register a Domain:

Choose a domain registrar like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.
Register your desired domain name.

2. Configure DNS Records:

Access the DNS settings for your registered domain.
Create an A record for your domain, pointing it to the GitLab Pages server IP address. You can find the IP address in the GitLab Pages documentation.
Create a CNAME record for www pointing to your gitlab.io subdomain.

3. Configure GitLab Pages:

Go to your project's "Settings" section in GitLab.
Navigate to "Pages" and then "Custom Domain."
Enter your registered domain name in the provided field.
Save the changes.

4. Enable SSL with Let's Encrypt:

GitLab Pages automatically provides free SSL certificates using Let's Encrypt.
No further configuration is required from your end.

5. Verify and Test:

Once all settings are in place, wait for DNS propagation (usually takes 24-48 hours).
Visit your website using the custom domain.
You should see the padlock icon in your browser, indicating a secure connection.

Additional Considerations:

DNS Propagation: DNS records need time to propagate across the internet. If your website doesn't appear immediately with your custom domain, be patient.
HTTPS Redirects: You might want to set up a redirect from your http address to https to ensure all visitors are redirected to the secure version of your website. This can usually be achieved with a simple .htaccess file in your project's root directory.
Subdomains: You can use a subdomain (e.g., blog.yourdomain.com) for your GitLab Pages website. Simply configure the relevant DNS records accordingly.

Advantages of Using a Custom Domain and SSL:

Branding and Professionalism: A custom domain gives your website a professional look and strengthens your brand identity.
Security: SSL encryption ensures secure communication between your website and visitors, protecting sensitive information.
SEO Benefits: Search engines generally favor secure websites, potentially improving your website's ranking in search results.
User Trust: Users are more likely to trust websites with a secure connection, leading to increased engagement and conversions.

Conclusion:

Using a custom domain and SSL for your GitLab Pages website is crucial for building a professional and secure online presence. The steps outlined above are straightforward and require minimal effort, providing a significant return on investment in terms of branding, security, and SEO benefits. By implementing these changes, you can create a website that is both visually appealing and safe for your users.