Quick answers about short links, domains, and the API. See the documentation or the guides for more.

Links & slugs

What's the difference between the built-in and a custom domain?

By default links live on yak.link. On a paid plan you can add your own domain on the Domains page to get branded links like go.yourbrand.com/launch.

Can I choose the slug?

Yes — leave it blank for a random one, or type a custom slug. Slugs are unique per domain; a taken slug returns 409 from the API.

Do redirects count against my quota?

No. Only creating a link counts. Clicks/redirects are unlimited and feed your analytics.

Custom domains

Why must I verify a domain?

Verification proves you control the domain, so no one else can brand links on it. Add the TXT record we show you, then click Verify. Once verified, point a CNAME (or A record) at us and HTTPS is issued automatically. See Set up a branded domain.

A domain says it's verified on another account — why?

A domain can be verified by only one account. If you own it and someone else verified it, contact us.

QR codes, campaigns & analytics

How do I get a QR code?

Every link has one: open Links and click QR to view or download it. New links also show their QR right after creation.

How do I track a campaign?

Create a campaign, assign links to it, and open its Analytics for combined clicks, referrers, country, device, and more. Add UTM parameters to your destination URLs — see Track a campaign.

API

What errors can /v1/shorten return?

401 missing key · 402 invalid key or quota exhausted · 409 slug taken · 422 bad URL or unverified domain. Full reference + a spec are in the docs.