Custom Domain Setup

Use this once the final public domain is chosen. The current site can remain on GitHub Pages while the custom domain is configured.

Recommended Short Path

1. Buy a domain.
2. Decide the canonical host:
   • https://www.example.com/, or
   • https://example.com/
3. Configure DNS for GitHub Pages or Cloudflare Pages.

4. Update _config.yml:

   url: "https://www.example.com"
   baseurl: ""
   

5. If using GitHub Pages, add a CNAME file containing the chosen domain:

   www.example.com
   

6. Enable HTTPS.
7. Verify the domain in Google Search Console.
8. Submit /sitemap.xml.
9. Test these pages:
   • /
   • /liverpool/
   • /liverpool/decline/
   • /methodology/
   • /analysis/2026/04/18/xg-decline-not-bad-luck/

Notes

• GitHub Pages can be indexed by Google. A custom domain is mainly for credibility, brand control, and long-term URL stability.
• Keep old GitHub Pages URLs working until the custom-domain version is verified.
• If the canonical domain changes, update social cards, Search Console, and any pinned X/Threads profile links.