This guide walks you through the steps to manually install the Sona SDK and to configure a Custom Tracking Domain (CNAME) to improve data capture. You’ll learn how to set up the Sona tracking pixel, understand why using a custom CNAME enhances data accuracy, and see how to install the script directly in your website’s HTML. With this guide, you’ll be ready to implement first-party, cookieless web visitor tracking and to boost the reliability of your visitor insights.
When to Use This / Prerequisites
When to Use This / Prerequisites
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
A. Configure a Custom Tracking Domain (CNAME)
A. Configure a Custom Tracking Domain (CNAME)
Step 1: Log in to your DNS provider
Sign in to the platform where your domain is managed (e.g., GoDaddy, Cloudflare, Namecheap).
Step 2: Create a subdomain
Recommended: use
slas the subdomain.Example: If your domain is
mystore.com, the subdomain should besl.mystore.com.Set the target value to
t.sonalabs.com.
Step 3: Turn off DNS proxying (if applicable)
In providers like Cloudflare, ensure the proxy is turned off for the CNAME record.
Step 4: Wait for DNS propagation
It typically takes up to 24 hours for changes to propagate.
Step 5: Verify your CNAME in Sona
Go to General > Tracking Pixel > CNAME Setup in the Sona platform.
Enter your subdomain under Add CNAME, then click Verify DNS.
Once verified, the status will show a green checkmark and your code snippet will automatically update to use your custom CNAME.
Step 6: Click Save
Finalize your CNAME configuration by saving the changes.
B. Manually Install the Sona SDK
B. Manually Install the Sona SDK
Step 1: Select your setup type
Under Setup for Websites, choose whether the script should capture form data.
The tracking code will adjust based on your selection.
Step 2: Copy the tracking script
Click Copy to Clipboard to grab the code snippet.
Step 3: Paste the script in your HTML
Place the script inside the
<head>tags of your website’s HTML code.
Step 4: Optional: Setup for web apps
If you’re tracking user activity in a login-based web app, select Setup for Web Apps and follow those instructions.
Key Concepts / Best Practices
Key Concepts / Best Practices
Manual installation avoids common tracking disruptions caused by ad blockers.
Using a custom CNAME improves script deliverability and reduces the risk of script blocking.
Always test your implementation in a staging environment before pushing live.