Knowledgebase

CDN Hostnames (Firstserv Guide)

When you purchase a CDN through Firstserv, you’ll be provided with a default hostname, and optionally you can configure a custom hostname for a more branded setup.

Default CDN Hostname

After your CDN is activated, you’ll see a default hostname, for example:

example12345.b-cdn.net

Using the Default Hostname

• You can use this hostname immediately to serve your site’s static content (e.g. images, CSS, JavaScript)
• No additional configuration is required beyond integrating it with your website

Recommended Setting: Force SSL

To ensure all CDN traffic is served securely:

• Enable Force SSL for the default hostname
• This ensures content is always delivered over HTTPS

Using a Custom Hostname (Optional)

For a more professional and branded setup, you can use your own domain, such as:

cdn.yourdomain.com

Step 1: Add a Custom Hostname

1. Enter your desired hostname in the Add New Hostname field
2. Click Add

✅ Your hostname will appear as an additional entry (e.g. Hostname #2)

Step 2: Configure DNS (CNAME Record)

To activate the custom hostname:

• Create a CNAME record in your DNS settings
• Point it to your provided CDN hostname

⚠️ Until this is set:

• The custom hostname will not function
• SSL options will not be available

Step 3: Verify CNAME

• Return to your CDN management page
• Refresh the page after adding the DNS record

✅ Once correctly configured, you’ll see confirmation that the hostname is active.

Step 4: Enable SSL

• Click Install Free SSL for your custom hostname

This will:

• Add an SSL certificate
• Enable Force SSL automatically

✅ Your custom CDN hostname is now ready to use securely.

Next Steps

Once your hostname is ready:

• Configure your website or caching plugin (e.g. LiteSpeed Cache) to use your CDN hostname
• Test your site to confirm assets are being delivered via the CDN

Summary

• The default CDN hostname is ready to use immediately
• A custom hostname allows for branding but requires DNS setup
• Always enable SSL/Force SSL for secure content delivery

If you need help setting up your CDN hostname or configuring DNS records, the Firstserv support team is always happy to assist.