This article explains the two different options available for hosting your video channel on the Open.Video platform: hosting directly on Open.Video, or connecting your own custom website. Both options allow you to manage and present your video content with flexibility and control.

To access your hosting options, navigate to the Homepage > Channel Hosting > Hosting section. From there, you can choose between the two available methods:

1. Host on Open.Video

2. Host on a Custom Website

Host on Open.Video

Choosing to host your channel on Open.Video provides you with a default channel page under the Open.Video domain. Your channel will be accessible at:

This option is ideal if you want a quick and hassle-free setup with no technical configuration.

Benefits:

• No domain setup required

• Secure and professionally hosted by Open.Video

• Easy access and maintenance

Host on a Custom Website

If you prefer to use your own domain, Open.Video allows you to connect a website you already own, or purchase a new one. This gives you full branding control over your channel URL.

You can connect a custom site using one of two methods:

1. Update DNS (CNAME)

This method involves adding CNAME records to your domain's DNS settings.

Steps:

• Choose your desired subdomain (e.g., videos.yourdomain.com)

• Add two CNAME records provided by Open.Video to your domain registrar

• Wait 5–15 minutes for the DNS changes to propagate

• Click Check Status to verify connection

2. Use WordPress Plugin (No DNS Changes)

If your website is built with WordPress, you can install the Open.Video WordPress plugin to link your channel without modifying DNS records.

DNS Connection Not Working:

• Double-check that both CNAME records are correctly entered and saved in your domain registrar.

• Allow up to 15 minutes for changes to take effect.

• Refresh the connection using the Check Status button.

WordPress Plugin Fails to Connect:

• Ensure the plugin is installed on the correct domain.

• Make sure your WordPress site is publicly accessible.

• Contact your hosting provider if plugin installation fails due to permission issues.

Can I change from one hosting option to the other later?
Yes, you can switch between Open.Video hosting and custom website hosting anytime through your dashboard.

Can I customize the look of my hosted page?
Absolutely! Both options allow you to personalize the branding and layout of your channel page using Open.Video's editor tools.

Do I need to buy a domain to use a custom site?
Yes, you must either own a domain or purchase one through a registrar before connecting it via DNS or the WordPress plugin.

If you’re experiencing any issues with hosting your channel, please reach out to support@open.video for additional assistance.