Managing Domains in Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Squarespace domains automatically renew yearly to keep your site online
- WHOIS privacy protection comes free with every domain
- You can buy, transfer, and manage domains directly in your Squarespace dashboard
- Multiple domains can point to the same site for brand protection
- Domain management integrates seamlessly with your website setup
Squarespace handles domain management through your main dashboard, making it straightforward to keep your website's address sorted without jumping between different platforms.
When you buy a domain through Squarespace, it's set to renew automatically each year. This stops your domain from expiring unexpectedly and taking your site offline. You'll get renewal reminders sent to your account email, so make sure those contact details stay current.
WHOIS Privacy Protection
Every domain purchased through Squarespace includes WHOIS privacy protection at no extra cost. This keeps your personal details private in the public domain database.
Without privacy protection, anyone can look up your domain and see your name, address, phone number, and email. WHOIS privacy replaces this information with generic contact details, cutting down on spam and unwanted marketing calls.
The protection applies automatically when you register a domain through Squarespace. You don't need to toggle it on or pay extra fees later.
Connecting Multiple Domains
You can connect several domains to the same Squarespace site. This works well if you want to protect your brand name across different extensions (.com, .co.uk, .net) or redirect old domain names to your main site.
When setting up multiple domains, you'll choose one as your primary domain. The others will automatically redirect visitors to your main site. All the domains appear in your Squarespace dashboard, so you can manage renewals and settings from one place.
The setup process walks you through connecting each domain step by step. Whether you're buying new domains through Squarespace or connecting ones you already own, the interface keeps things simple.
Domain Transfers
If you have an existing domain with another provider, you can transfer it to Squarespace. The transfer process takes a few days to complete, but your website stays online throughout.
You'll need to unlock your domain with your current provider and get an authorization code. Squarespace provides guides for common domain registrars to help with this process.
Once transferred, your domain gets the same management features as domains bought directly through Squarespace, including the free WHOIS privacy protection.
FAQs
Can I use my own domain with Squarespace?
Yes, you can either buy a new domain through Squarespace or connect an existing domain you own elsewhere.
What happens if I forget to renew my domain?
Squarespace domains set to auto-renew will charge your payment method automatically. You'll get email reminders before renewal dates.
Can I transfer my domain away from Squarespace later?
Yes, domains can be transferred to other registrars. Squarespace doesn't lock you in permanently.
How long do domain transfers take?
Usually 5-7 days, though it can vary depending on your current domain provider.
Jargon Buster
Domain: Your website's address on the internet (like pixelhaze.academy)
WHOIS: A public database showing who owns domain names
DNS: Domain Name System – translates your domain name into an IP address so browsers can find your site
Primary domain: The main web address for your site that appears in search results
Domain transfer: Moving your domain registration from one company to another
Wrap-up
Squarespace keeps domain management simple by handling everything in your main dashboard. The automatic renewals and included privacy protection mean less admin work for you, while the option to connect multiple domains gives you flexibility for brand protection.
Whether you're starting fresh with a new domain or bringing existing ones over, the integration with your website setup removes the usual technical headaches of domain management.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace? Join Pixelhaze Academy for detailed tutorials and expert guidance.