Can I design a website on Webflow, export it, and then deploy it on a "deployable" environment through Vercel to have access to an SSL verified domain specific to that page?
TL;DR
- Design your site in Webflow, export the HTML/CSS/JS files, and download all assets.
- Deploy the exported files to Vercel via CLI or Dashboard, then connect your custom domain and enable HTTPS automatically via Vercel’s Let's Encrypt SSL.
Yes, you can design a website in Webflow, then export it and deploy it to Vercel, where you can configure a custom domain with SSL (HTTPS) enabled.
1. Design and Export From Webflow
- Finish your design in Webflow using the Designer.
- Go to Project Settings > Code Export and click Export Code.
- Download the HTML, CSS, JS, and image assets. Note: Webflow's CMS and form handling won't work outside Webflow-hosted sites.
2. Prepare Files for Vercel
- Create a folder for your Webflow site on your local machine.
- Drop the exported HTML, CSS, JS, images, and other assets into this folder.
- You may need to add a vercel.json file to customize settings, especially if routing or rewrites are needed.
3. Deploy to Vercel
- If you haven’t already, create an account at vercel.com.
- Use the Vercel CLI or web dashboard to deploy:
- CLI: Run
vercelin your project folder and follow setup prompts. - Dashboard: Click “Add New Project”, import from a Git repo, or upload files directly.
4. Connect a Custom Domain
- Go to your Vercel project dashboard.
- Click “Settings > Domains”, then Add your custom domain.
- Update your domain’s DNS settings to point to Vercel:
- For A records: Use (a) 76.76.21.21.
- If using a subdomain (like www), use a CNAME pointing to
cname.vercel-dns.com.
5. Enable SSL (HTTPS)
- Vercel automatically provisions an SSL certificate using Let's Encrypt once the domain is added and DNS is properly configured.
- Ensure your DNS propagation is complete and your domain points correctly.
6. Important Notes
- Webflow Forms and CMS won't work outside of Webflow. Replace with third-party solutions (e.g., Formspree, Netlify Forms, or custom backend).
- Any dynamic features must be rebuilt using client-side JS or an alternative backend.
Summary
Yes, you can export a static Webflow site and deploy it on Vercel to use a custom-SLL-enabled domain. Just make sure to manually handle any CMS or form functionalities, as these are not included in static exports from Webflow.