Domain Transfer vs Connection on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Transferring your domain to Squarespace centralizes control of your site and domain
- Connecting your domain means keeping it with your current provider but pointing it to Squarespace
- Benefits of transferring include managing all settings in one place and eligibility for freebies like SSL certificates
- Restrictions include domain age, type, and registration terms
Understanding Your Options
When you have a domain with providers like GoDaddy or Hover and want to use it with Squarespace, you have two choices. You can transfer the domain completely to Squarespace or connect it while leaving it with your current provider.
Transferring Your Domain to Squarespace
Transferring means moving your domain registration from your current provider to Squarespace. This gives you the advantage of managing both your website and domain through one platform.
Benefits of Transfer
When you transfer, you get:
- Easy DNS management all in one place
- Free SSL certificates
- Whois privacy protection
- Potential free domain service for one year if you're on an annual plan
- Better support since everything is under Squarespace's umbrella
Transfer Restrictions
Not all domains can be transferred. Your domain must:
- Be registered for at least 60 days with your current provider
- Not exceed nine years of total registration time
- Use a supported TLD (top-level domain)
- Meet Squarespace's transfer criteria
Always check that your domain meets all of Squarespace's requirements before starting the transfer process.
Connecting Your Domain to Squarespace
If you can't transfer your domain or prefer to keep it with your current provider, connecting it is your alternative. This involves adjusting DNS records to point your existing domain to your Squarespace site.
How Connection Works
With a connected domain, you:
- Keep your domain registered with your current provider
- Adjust DNS settings through your current provider to point to Squarespace
- Continue paying your current provider for domain services
- Manage DNS settings through your original provider, not Squarespace
Connection Limitations
The main drawback is that you can't access DNS settings through Squarespace. You must manage everything through your current provider. Make sure your domain provider allows full access to DNS settings before attempting to connect.
FAQs
Can I transfer any domain to Squarespace?
No, only domains that meet Squarespace's requirements can be transferred. This includes specific TLDs and registration duration limits.
Are there extra costs for transferring or connecting domains to Squarespace?
Transfers don't cost extra under certain plans, but connecting means you'll keep paying your existing domain host.
What if my domain is already connected to another site?
You can still transfer it to Squarespace if it meets the eligibility criteria. The transfer process will move it away from your current setup.
How long does a domain transfer take?
Domain transfers typically take 5-7 days to complete, though this can vary depending on your current provider.
Jargon Buster
TLD (Top-Level Domain): The suffix at the end of a domain name, like .com or .org
DNS (Domain Name System): The system that turns readable domain names into IP addresses
SSL Certificate: A digital certificate that confirms the security of your website by encrypting data
Whois Privacy: A service that hides your personal information from the public Whois database
Wrap-up
Your choice between transferring and connecting depends on your domain's eligibility and your preferences. Transferring offers a more streamlined management experience since everything is in one place. Connecting works well if your domain doesn't meet transfer requirements or if you want to keep your current provider's services. Either way, Squarespace provides the tools and guidance you need to get your domain working with your site.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace? Check out our comprehensive courses at Pixelhaze Academy.