Are you tired of seeing the dreaded “Domain ownership not validated” error message in the Google Play Console? You’re not alone! Many developers and publishers have faced this frustrating issue, but fear not, dear reader, for we’re about to embark on a journey to resolve this problem once and for all.
What is Domain Ownership Validation?
Before we dive into the solution, it’s essential to understand what domain ownership validation is and why it’s crucial for your app’s success. Domain ownership validation is a security measure implemented by Google to ensure that only authorized individuals can manage and publish apps on the Google Play Store.
This validation process verifies that you, the developer or publisher, have control over the domain associated with your app. This includes the app’s website, landing page, or any other online presence. By validating your domain ownership, you’re proving to Google that you’re the rightful owner of the domain and that you have the necessary permissions to manage the app.
Why is Domain Ownership Not Validated?
There are several reasons why you might encounter the “Domain ownership not validated” error message in the Google Play Console. Here are some common culprits:
- Incorrect domain setup: If your domain isn’t set up correctly, Google won’t be able to verify your ownership.
- Inconsistent DNS records: Mismatched or outdated DNS records can prevent Google from validating your domain ownership.
- Changes to domain ownership: If there have been recent changes to your domain ownership or registration, it may affect the validation process.
- Firewall or DNS blockage: Firewalls or DNS blockages can restrict Google’s ability to access your domain and validate ownership.
How to Validate Domain Ownership in Google Play Console
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to tackle the main event – validating your domain ownership in the Google Play Console. Follow these step-by-step instructions to resolve the “Domain ownership not validated” error:
Step 1: Prepare Your Domain
Before you start the validation process, make sure your domain is ready for prime time:
- Ensure your domain is active and not expired.
- Verify that your domain is correctly set up with your registrar or DNS provider.
- Update your DNS records to reflect any recent changes.
Step 2: Obtain a TXT Record
In the Google Play Console, navigate to the “Setup” section and click on “Domain verification.”
https://play.google.com/apps/publish
Click on the “Get verification code” button, and you’ll receive a TXT record in the following format:
google-site-verification=your_verification_code_here
Step 3: Add the TXT Record to Your Domain
Log in to your DNS provider or registrar and add the TXT record to your domain’s DNS settings:
| Record Type | Value |
|---|---|
| TXT | google-site-verification=your_verification_code_here |
It may take a few minutes for the TXT record to propagate globally. Be patient!
Step 4: Verify Domain Ownership
Return to the Google Play Console and click on the “Verify domain ownership” button. If everything is set up correctly, you should see a success message indicating that your domain ownership has been validated.
Domain ownership validated successfully!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best instructions, things can go awry. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Issue: TXT Record Not Propagating
If the TXT record isn’t propagating, try the following:
- Wait for a few more minutes, as propagation can take time.
- Check your DNS provider’s documentation for specific guidance on adding TXT records.
- Verify that your DNS provider supports TXT records.
Issue: DNS Records Mismatched
If your DNS records are mismatched, try the following:
- Update your DNS records to reflect the correct information.
- Verify that your DNS provider has updated the records correctly.
- Wait for a few hours for the changes to propagate.
Issue: Firewall or DNS Blockage
If you suspect a firewall or DNS blockage, try the following:
- Check your firewall settings to ensure that Google’s verification requests aren’t being blocked.
- Verify that your DNS provider isn’t blocking Google’s verification requests.
- Contact your network administrator or DNS provider for assistance.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! By following these step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting common issues, you should be able to resolve the “Domain ownership not validated” error in the Google Play Console.
Remember to be patient, as the validation process can take some time. If you’re still encountering issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Google Play Console support or your DNS provider for further assistance.
With your domain ownership validated, you can now focus on what matters most – creating an amazing app that delights your users and drives business success!
Frequently Asked Question
Stuck with validating your domain ownership in Google Play Console? Worry not! We’ve got you covered with answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Why is my domain ownership not validated in Google Play Console?
This could be due to several reasons, including incorrect TXT record setup, typos in the domain name, or the record not being propagated correctly. Double-check your setup and ensure that the TXT record is correctly configured and propagated.
How long does it take for the TXT record to propagate?
The propagation time for TXT records can vary depending on your DNS provider and the TTL (Time To Live) set for the record. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours for the changes to take effect. Be patient, and try re-validating your domain ownership after some time.
Can I use a CNAME record instead of a TXT record for domain validation?
No, Google Play Console requires a TXT record for domain validation. CNAME records are used for aliasing a domain name, whereas TXT records are used for verifying domain ownership. Make sure to set up a TXT record with the correct value provided by Google Play Console.
What if I’m using a third-party DNS provider, like Cloudflare?
When using a third-party DNS provider, ensure that the TXT record is configured correctly and that the provider is not overriding or caching the DNS records. You may need to check with your DNS provider’s documentation or support team for specific instructions on setting up TXT records.
How do I know if my domain ownership is validated successfully?
If your domain ownership is validated successfully, you will see a confirmation message in the Google Play Console, and the domain will be marked as “verified”. You can then proceed with setting up your app or using the verified domain for other Google services.
