Squarespace with Own Domain: How to Connect Your Custom Domain to Squarespace in 2024?

Overview

Choosing and Securing Your Unique Domain

Getting started requires selecting a unique domain name, which acts as the web address for your site. Secure this from a registrar such as GoDaddy or Google Domains. Squarespace also provides a direct option to purchase domains.

Remember to have access to the domain settings since you'll need to add DNS records.

Creating an Account with Squarespace

To link your domain, you must have a Squarespace account. Visit their site, create an account, and pick a plan that suits your website's needs.

Locating Domain Management in Squarespace

Post-login to your Squarespace account, navigate to the Domains section via the Settings menu to manage your domain.

Linking Your Domain to Your Squarespace Site

Through the Domains section, choose the option to connect an existing domain. Input the domain you've secured from your registrar here.

Setting DNS Records for Your Domain

Squarespace will display the necessary DNS records for the domain you're connecting. These records, including A and CNAME records, must be added to your domain provider's settings.

Log into your domain provider's platform and update the DNS management section with the given details.

DNS Settings Confirmation

Having updated your DNS records, go back to Squarespace to confirm the domain connection. It might take a short while for your settings to be recognized.

Opting for a Primary Domain

Should you wish your new domain to be the primary one used for your Squarespace site, this can be configured in the Domains section under Settings.

Patience During DNS Propagation

Be aware that DNS changes take time to propagate. This could be immediate or take up to 48 hours, during which the site may be accessible by both the Squarespace and custom domains.

Ensuring Your Domain Works

After DNS changes fully propagate, it's essential to test your domain thoroughly to ensure it points to your site accurately.

Confirm that all pages and features are functioning. If you encounter issues, Squarespace's Support or your domain provider's help center should be contacted for guidance.

Commonly Asked Questions

Linking an External Domain to Your Squarespace Website

To connect your non-Squarespace domain, follow these steps:

Log in to your Squarespace account and select the relevant site.
Navigate to 'Settings' and then 'Domains.'
Click 'Use a Domain I Own' and enter the domain name.
Select 'Connect From Provider' and choose your domain provider from the list.
Log in to your domain account when prompted and approve the connection.

Setting Up an External Domain with Squarespace

The setup for an external domain includes:

Navigate to 'Settings' in your Squarespace dashboard.
Click 'Domains,' then 'Use a Domain I Own.'
Enter your domain name and follow prompts to 'Connect From Provider.'
If your provider is not listed, select 'Other,' and update DNS settings manually with the records provided by Squarespace.

Transferring an Existing Domain to Squarespace

Transferring your domain to Squarespace encompasses:

Select 'Settings' > 'Domains' > 'Use a Domain I Own' on your Squarespace site.
Click 'Transfer a Domain.'
Enter your domain name and follow the on-screen instructions.
Unlock the domain and obtain the transfer code from your current provider.
Authorize the transfer in Squarespace. The process may take up to a week to complete.

Addressing Verification Issues for Domain Ownership on Squarespace

To fix ownership verification issues:

Go to the email received from Squarespace upon domain connection attempt.
Follow the verification link provided.
If the problem persists, go to the domain provider's site and manually add the required TXT record from Squarespace.

Decision Between Connecting or Transferring a Domain to Squarespace

Understanding connecting versus transferring:

Connecting: Your domain stays with the third-party provider, but it will point to your Squarespace site. DNS changes are necessary.
Transferring: Your domain management moves to Squarespace, consolidating billing and hosting.
Consider ease of management, cost, and control when deciding.

Guidelines for Linking a GoDaddy Domain to Squarespace

To link a GoDaddy domain:

In your Squarespace account, go to 'Settings' > 'Domains' and select 'Use a Domain I Own.'
Enter your GoDaddy domain name and choose 'Connect From Provider.'
Follow the prompts. Then, log in to GoDaddy and confirm the connection to Squarespace.

These guidelines are intended to support domain management and ensure seamless integration with Squarespace platforms.