Admin Manual

Video

iGrOOps provides users with two choices to use a URL: 1) http://[groupname].igroops.com or 2) http://www.igroops.com/igroops/[groupname].  But all users of iGrOOps can choose to use their own domain with their iGrOOp, providing a more brandable, descriptive, URL.

Your own domain is a good investment.  It will make it easier for people to remember your URL, assuming you have picked a good domain name.

Free iGrOOps users can use domain forwarding while Pro users can choose either domain forwarding or attach the domain directly to the iGrOOp.  Which method is right for you?

You cannot use domain masking with iGrOOps.  Most domain registrars offer a service called domain masking.  This is where your domain is showed on every page and the true URL is hidden.  You will not be able to login if you try to use masking.

Method #1: Domain Forwarding

Domain forwarding is simple.  Almost all domain registrars offer this service.  Domain forwarding is when you simply point your domain to any URL on the web.  Then, when users click on or type your URL, they are forwarded to your iGrOOp.  The URL in the browser window will remain as http://www.igroops.com/igroops/[groupname] , not your domain.

Method #2: Attaching the Domain Directly to Your iGrOOp

A more complex, but more "professional" solution is to attach your domain directly to your iGrOOp -- just like you would do with your own custom website.  The major difference is that your domain name will always appear in the URL everywhere in your iGrOOp.

You must use your registrar's "DNS service" , your own DNS service, or a 3rd parties DNS service.  Some registrar's do not provide this service -- you need to find one who does!

Which method is right for you?  Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.

How to Attach Your Domain to Your iGrOOp

If you have chosen this method and you are a Pro package user, you will need to follow these steps to activate your own domain on your iGrOOp.

If you do not already have a domain, consider purchasing your domain at http://www.igroopsdomains.com .   iGrOOps is a reseller for a registrar that provides all the services needed to forward and attach your domain to iGrOOps.

1. Register / move your domain.  Whomever controls your domains DNS record has to specify the iGrOOps IP address in the record.  Many times, you (the owner of the domain) will have direct control over this information.  Point your domain to "209.59.13.26".  Allow up to 72 hours for the change to take place (this is the usual time DNS providers will give, although it is usually just a few hours).  (See section moving your domain below)
2. Log into your iGrOOp as administrator. You must had admin access to attach a domain to your iGrOOp.
3. Click the administrator settings icon in the header menu.
4. In the first page (the Basic Settings), enter your domain name.  Be sure to include your subdomain.  In most cases you will use www.yourdomain.com ("www" being your subdomain).  Click the "save and next" button when done.

Do NOT attach your domain until you are sure that your domain is pointing to the iGrOOps IP address.  Test this by simply entering your domain name in your browser.  If the iGrOOps homepage pulls up, your domain is pointing to the iGrOOps IP and you can proceed with the above steps.  But keep in mind that it may NOT be moved for everyone in the world yet -- it CAN take up to 3 days.

Moving Your Domain

All domain registrars are different, but here is a step by step example using igroopsdomains.com (GoDaddy).

1. Log on to your domain account.

   

2. Select "Manage Domains"
   
   
   
3. Click on your domain
   
   
   
4. Click on the "Total DNS..." link
   
   
   
5. Look for the "A Host" record
   
   
   
6. Click the edit icon to the right of the record
   
   
   
7. Enter the iGrOOps IP address where is asks for the IP
   
   

Make sure you have chosen to use the default name servers -- only then will you have the option of using "Total DNS".