Domain troubleshooting

Diagnose and fix common issues when connecting or using custom domains with your static sites or instances.

Domain validation issues

Domain stays in Pending status

Problem: You added a domain but it remains in Pending status for an extended time.

What to check:

1. Verify the DNS record exists at your registrar.
2. Use a DNS lookup tool (like dig or an online checker) to confirm the record is visible publicly.
3. Check that the record value matches exactly what Mincemeat shows.

Fix: If the record is correct, wait for DNS propagation. This typically takes minutes but can take up to 48 hours in rare cases.

Validation fails

Problem: Mincemeat shows a Failed status for your domain.

What to check:

1. The DNS record type matches what Mincemeat expects (CNAME for subdomains, A for apex domains).
2. The record value is exact, with no typos, extra spaces, or trailing dots.
3. You added the record at the correct registrar (the one managing your domain's DNS).

Fix: Correct the DNS record and wait for Mincemeat to re-check. You can also remove and re-add the domain in Mincemeat to trigger a fresh validation.

SSL certificate issues

SSL provisioning fails

Problem: Your domain is validated but the SSL certificate fails to provision.

What to check:

1. The domain resolves to the correct Mincemeat endpoint.
2. The domain status is Validated.
3. There are no conflicting DNS records pointing to a different location.

Fix: Wait a few minutes and check again. SSL provisioning is automatic. If it continues to fail, contact support with the domain name and any error message shown.

Certificate expired

Problem: Visitors see a browser warning about an expired certificate.

What to check:

1. The domain status in Mincemeat.
2. Whether the certificate renewal process has started.

Fix: Mincemeat automatically renews certificates before they expire. If a certificate has expired, contact support immediately. In the meantime, visitors can still access your site via the shared subdomain.

DNS issues

DNS record not propagating

Problem: You added a DNS record but it is not visible yet.

What to check:

1. The TTL of the previous record (high TTLs mean slower propagation).
2. Your registrar's DNS management panel to confirm the record was saved.
3. Use dig or an online DNS checker to see if the record is visible from different locations.

Fix: Wait for propagation. You cannot speed up DNS propagation, but you can verify progress using DNS lookup tools.

Wrong DNS record type

Problem: You added an A record for a subdomain or a CNAME for an apex domain.

What to check:

1. Subdomains (www.example.com) need a CNAME record.
2. Apex domains (example.com) need an A record.

Fix: Delete the incorrect record and add the correct type with the value Mincemeat provides.

Site not accessible via custom domain

Problem: Your domain is active but visitors cannot reach your site.

What to check:

1. The domain status is Active (not Pending, Failed, or Expired).
2. Your static site has an active deployment or your instance is running.
3. There are no proxy settings blocking traffic (for instances).
4. Your browser is not caching an old error page.

Fix:

1. Confirm the domain status in Mincemeat.
2. Check that your site or instance is operational.
3. Clear your browser cache or try an incognito window.
4. If the issue persists, contact support.

Related

• DNS basics
• Connect a custom domain
• Domain status
• Troubleshooting overview