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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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domain management
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To connect a third-party domain to Squarespace, add specific CNAME and A records through your domain provider's DNS settings. Common issues may resolve within 48 hours, and transferring the domain to Squarespace can simplify management.
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Connect External Domains: DNS Setup on Squarespace
Setting Up Your Third-Party Domain
Connecting your third-party domain to Squarespace means adding specific DNS records through your domain provider's settings. These records point your domain to your Squarespace site, so visitors see your chosen domain name instead of a generic Squarespace subdomain.
The process is straightforward once you know which records to add and where to find them.
Essential DNS Records You Need
CNAME Records
You'll need two CNAME records to get your domain working properly:
- Verification CNAME: This is unique to your site. You'll find this random alphanumeric code in your Squarespace DNS settings panel.
- WWW CNAME: Set this to point to 'ext-cust.squarespace.com' for the 'www' version of your domain.
A Records
Add these four A records to connect the non-www version of your domain:
- @ A record pointing to 198.185.159.144
- @ A record pointing to 198.185.159.145
- @ A record pointing to 198.49.23.144
- @ A record pointing to 198.49.23.145
Some domain providers only let you add one A record. If that's your situation, just use the first one (198.185.159.144).
Fixing Common Problems
Don't panic if you see a 'Record not found' message after adding your DNS records. This usually sorts itself out within 48 hours as your domain fully connects to Squarespace.
If you're still having trouble after two days, use Squarespace's DNS record checker in the Domains panel. It'll show you exactly what needs fixing.
Pixelhaze Tip: If your domain is eligible, think about transferring it directly to Squarespace. It's often simpler and keeps everything in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find DNS records in my domain provider's settings?
Look for a section called DNS Management, DNS Settings, or Advanced DNS in your domain provider's control panel. Squarespace has specific guides for popular providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, and others if you get stuck.
What should I do if I still see 'Record not found' after updating?
Wait up to 48 hours for the changes to take effect. DNS changes can take time to propagate across the internet. Double-check that you've entered the records correctly while you wait.
Should I transfer my domain to Squarespace instead?
If your domain is eligible for transfer, it's often worth doing. You'll manage everything from one dashboard, and there's less chance of DNS issues down the line.
Technical Terms Explained
DNS Records: These work like the internet's phone book, connecting domain names to the right servers and IP addresses.
CNAME: A Canonical Name record that links one domain name to another. You'll use these mainly for verification and connecting your www subdomain.
A Records: Address Records that directly connect your domain name to specific IP addresses. These are essential for making your site accessible.
Domain Provider: The company where you bought your domain. They give you the tools to manage DNS settings and other domain configurations.
Wrapping Up
Follow these steps and you'll have your external domain connected without too much hassle. Check your DNS settings occasionally to make sure everything's still working properly.
If you're managing multiple domains or find yourself constantly switching between providers, transferring everything to Squarespace might save you time in the long run.