Why Domain Updates Take Up to 48 Hours
TL;DR:
- Domain connections typically work within 24-48 hours, sometimes up to 72 hours
- This delay is called propagation time and happens with all DNS updates across the internet
- Squarespace can't speed this up because it depends on ISPs updating their cached records
- Use Whatsmydns.net to check your domain's status during the waiting period
When you connect a custom domain to your Squarespace site, there's always a waiting period before everything works properly. This isn't a technical problem or something you've done wrong. It's just how the internet handles domain updates.
Understanding Propagation Time
Propagation time is the period it takes for DNS changes to spread across the entire internet. When you connect your domain, servers around the world need to update their records with your new settings. This process typically takes 24-48 hours, though it can occasionally stretch to 72 hours.
During this time, your domain might work inconsistently. Some people might see your new site while others still see the old one, or get error messages. This is completely normal.
How Domain Updates Work
Every time someone types your domain into their browser, their internet provider (ISP) needs to look up where that domain should point. Instead of checking this information fresh every time, ISPs store a cached copy of your DNS records to speed things up.
The problem is that when you change your DNS settings, these cached copies don't update immediately. Each ISP has its own schedule for refreshing cached records, which is why the process takes time.
Your ISP might update within a few hours, but someone else's ISP might take the full 48 hours. This is why your domain might work fine for you but not for a friend trying to visit your site.
Quick tip: After making DNS changes, double-check that all your records were entered correctly. Getting this right the first time prevents issues once propagation completes.
Monitoring Your Domain's Status
You can track your domain's propagation progress using Whatsmydns.net. This tool checks DNS records from servers around the world and shows you which ones have updated. It's reassuring to watch the green checkmarks appear as more servers recognize your new settings.
The tool won't speed up the process, but it helps you understand what's happening behind the scenes.
FAQs
Why does it take up to 48 hours for domain updates on Squarespace?
The delay happens because DNS changes need to propagate across thousands of servers globally. Each ISP updates their cached records on their own schedule, which creates the 24-48 hour window. This happens with all platforms, not just Squarespace.
Can Squarespace speed up the domain propagation process?
No. Propagation time depends on how quickly ISPs around the world refresh their cached DNS records. This is completely outside Squarespace's control.
What should I do if my domain isn't working after 48 hours?
Contact Squarespace support if your domain still isn't working after 48 hours. They can check your DNS settings to make sure everything is configured correctly.
Jargon Buster
DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates domain names (like yoursite.com) into IP addresses that browsers can use to find your website.
ISP (Internet Service Provider): The company that provides your internet connection, like BT, Sky, or Virgin Media.
Propagation Time: How long it takes for DNS changes to spread across all the servers on the internet.
Wrap-up
The 24-48 hour wait for domain propagation is frustrating, but it's a normal part of how the internet works. Understanding why it happens makes the waiting easier. Use tools like Whatsmydns.net to track progress, and contact support if things aren't working after 48 hours.
Ready to get your domain connected properly? Check out our detailed guides at Pixelhaze Academy.