Connect Your Bluehost Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Check if your domain is eligible for connection (transferring might be better)
- Start the connection through Squarespace's Domains panel
- Update DNS settings in your Bluehost account with Squarespace's records
- Wait 24-48 hours for DNS changes to take effect
- Use Squarespace's DNS checker if things aren't working after 48 hours
Starting the Connection
Head to your Squarespace dashboard and open the Domains panel:
- Click 'Use a domain I own'
- Type in your domain name and hit the arrow
- Choose 'Connect domain' or select Bluehost from the provider list
If you see a message saying your domain is already connected to another Squarespace site, you'll need to disconnect it first.
Setting Up DNS in Bluehost
Now you need to update your DNS settings in Bluehost. Log into your account and follow these steps:
- Go to the 'Domains' section, then 'Advanced Tools'
- Click 'Manage' next to Advanced DNS Records
- Add these records exactly as Squarespace provides them:
- CNAME record: Use the unique code from Squarespace and point it to verify.squarespace.com
- WWW CNAME: Point this to ext-cust.squarespace.com
- Four A records: Add all four IP addresses (198.185.159.144, 198.185.159.145, 198.49.23.144, 198.49.23.145)
Important: Don't delete any MX records during this process. Your email services need these to keep working.
Waiting and Troubleshooting
After you've added all the DNS records, you'll need to wait. DNS changes take 24-48 hours to work properly across the internet.
Check your Squarespace DNS Settings panel to monitor progress. You'll see a green label when everything's connected properly.
If it's been more than 48 hours and things still aren't working, use Squarespace's DNS checker tool to spot any problems with your settings.
FAQs
How long before my domain works with Squarespace?
Usually 24-48 hours for DNS changes to take effect everywhere.
What if I still have errors after 48 hours?
Use Squarespace's DNS checker tool to find and fix any incorrect DNS entries.
Should I transfer my domain to Squarespace instead?
Often transferring is easier than connecting. Check if your domain is eligible for transfer in your Squarespace account.
Jargon Buster
Domain – Your website's address that people type into their browser
DNS Settings – Instructions that tell the internet where to find your website
CNAME Record – A type of DNS record that points your domain to another domain
A Record – Points your domain to a specific IP address where your site lives
Wrap-up
Connecting your Bluehost domain to Squarespace gives you more control over your site while keeping your domain where it is. The key is getting those DNS records exactly right and being patient while they propagate.
If you run into trouble, both Squarespace and Bluehost have support teams who can help you sort things out.
Ready to take your Squarespace skills further? Join Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth tutorials and expert guidance.