Connect OVHcloud Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Check domain eligibility and consider transferring for full Squarespace integration
- Start by adding your domain via Squarespace's 'Domains' panel
- Log into OVH to modify DNS settings as specified by Squarespace
- Record setup includes CNAMEs and A records – follow steps closely to avoid errors
- Connection time ranges from 24 to 48 hours after DNS changes
Getting Started
Before connecting your OVHcloud domain to Squarespace, check it meets Squarespace's third-party domain requirements. You might want to transfer your domain directly to Squarespace instead – it makes management easier and gives you access to all features.
If you decide to transfer, OVH provides a transfer guide that walks you through the process.
Step 1 – Add Your Domain to Squarespace
To start the connection:
- Go to the 'Domains' panel in Squarespace and select 'Use a domain I own'
- Enter your domain name in the 'Enter domain' field and continue
- Choose 'Connect domain', then select 'Other' from the options and confirm
Squarespace will then show you the DNS settings you need to add in your OVH account.
Step 2 – Access DNS Settings in OVH
After logging into OVH:
- Click 'Web Cloud' in the main menu, then go to 'DNS zone' under your domain's settings
- Use the 'Add an entry' function to start entering the DNS records from Squarespace
Keep your existing MX Records intact – deleting them will break any email services linked to your domain.
Step 3 – Add CNAME Records
You need to add two CNAME records:
- One for domain verification pointing to verify.squarespace.com
- Another for www pointing to ext-cust.squarespace.com
Both records are essential for your site to work properly.
Step 4 – Add A Records
Add the four A records that point to the IP addresses Squarespace provides. These direct your domain to Squarespace's servers.
Double-check each entry – getting these wrong will stop the connection from working.
Step 5 – Wait for Connection
Once all DNS records are in place, the connection process begins. DNS changes typically take 24-48 hours to propagate worldwide.
You can check the 'DNS Settings' in Squarespace to monitor the connection status.
FAQs
How long does it take for the domain changes to work?
After updating the DNS settings, it usually takes 24-48 hours for the domain to connect fully with Squarespace.
What if I have issues after setup?
Squarespace has a DNS checker tool that helps identify and fix record problems. Also revisit the setup steps to make sure everything's entered correctly.
Why should I keep MX Records unchanged?
MX Records handle your email delivery. Deleting or changing them will break any email services using your domain.
Jargon Buster
- DNS Records: Entries that tell the internet how to direct traffic to your domain
- CNAME Record: An alias that points one domain or subdomain to another domain name
- A Record: Links a domain to the physical IP address of the server hosting the website
- MX Record: Directs email to an email server and controls email delivery
Wrap-up
Connecting your OVHcloud domain to Squarespace requires careful DNS changes and patience while they propagate. Follow each step precisely and wait the full 24-48 hours before troubleshooting. Keep your MX Records untouched to maintain email functionality.
If problems persist after the waiting period, use Squarespace's DNS checker tool or contact their support team.
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