How to Register a Domain with Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Register multiple domains on most Squarespace plans, except Mobile Start
- Annual plans include one free domain for the first year
- Domains are priced based on their top-level domain (TLD)
- Transfer existing domains or connect them if transfer is unavailable
- Steps include finding, adding to cart, and verifying domains
- Complete email verification within 15 days to prevent suspension
Most Squarespace plans let you register domains directly through their platform. If you're on an annual plan, you'll get your first domain free for the first year. The process is straightforward once you know what to expect.
Finding and Registering Your Domain
Step 1: Search for Available Domains
Head to your domain dashboard in Squarespace. Use the domain search tool to check what's available. You'll see domains marked as "Free" if they qualify for your plan, with paid domains showing their prices. Unavailable domains will be marked clearly.
Keep in mind that country-specific domains (like .com.au) often have special requirements you'll need to meet before you can register them.
Step 2: Add Domains to Your Cart
Once you've found what you want, click the shopping cart icon to add domains to your cart. If you're buying multiple domains, they'll all redirect to the same primary domain initially. You can change this later in your settings.
Step 3: Choose Your Registration Term
Pick how long you want to register your domain for. The options vary depending on the domain extension you've chosen. If you don't have a Squarespace website plan yet, you can add one during this process.
Just remember that if you already have a trial site, upgrading it requires a separate transaction.
Step 4: Enter Your Contact Details
You'll need to provide personal contact information for domain registration. This stays private thanks to the included domain privacy protection. Make sure everything you enter is accurate to avoid problems down the line.
Step 5: Review and Purchase
Before you buy, double-check your cart. Remove anything you don't want. Your first domain might be free if you're eligible. Additional domains will be charged at their listed prices.
Accept the terms of service and confirm your purchase. You might need to verify the transaction through your bank or Squarespace for security.
Step 6: Verify Your Domain
After purchase, you'll get a verification email. Click the link to verify your domain ownership. This is crucial because you have 15 days to complete this step. Miss the deadline and your domain could be suspended.
Step 7: Wait for Activation
You'll receive a receipt email and can monitor your domain's setup in your dashboard. Domains typically activate within 48 hours.
Tip: Keep your email address current so you receive all confirmation and verification emails on time.
What to Do When Things Go Wrong
If your domain registration fails, check your billing information first. Payment issues are the most common cause of failed registrations. Update your details and try again.
If you can't transfer an existing domain directly to Squarespace, you can connect it from your current provider instead. This keeps your domain where it is while pointing it to your Squarespace site.
FAQs
What if I can't transfer my existing domain directly to Squarespace?
You can link your existing domain from another provider to your Squarespace account instead of transferring it.
What should I do if domain registration fails?
Check and update your billing information. If payment issues continue, contact your bank or try a different payment method.
How much does it cost to renew my domain after the first free year?
After the initial free year on eligible annual plans, renewal costs typically start around £20 per year but vary based on the domain extension.
Can I register multiple domains?
Yes, most Squarespace plans allow multiple domain registrations. Only the Mobile Start plan restricts this.
Jargon Buster
TLD (Top-Level Domain): The suffix at the end of a domain name, like .com, .org, or country-specific versions (.uk, .de)
Domain Privacy: A service that hides your personal contact information from the public domain database
ccTLD (Country Code Top-Level Domain): Extensions specific to certain countries (e.g., .uk for the United Kingdom)
Domain Dashboard: The Squarespace interface where you manage all aspects of your domain registration and settings
Wrap-up
Registering a domain through Squarespace is mostly straightforward. The key points to remember are completing your email verification within 15 days and keeping your contact information up to date. If you run into issues, Squarespace's support team can help sort things out.
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