Connecting Your Namecheap Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Set your Namecheap domain to default nameservers before connecting to avoid errors
- Choose between Nameserver Connect (simpler) or DNS Connect (more control)
- Nameserver Connect is easier but check for custom DNS settings first
- Connection takes 24-48 hours to complete
- Monitor progress in your Squarespace domain settings
Getting your Namecheap domain working with Squarespace is straightforward once you know the steps. You've got two main ways to do it, and picking the right one depends on whether you need to keep custom DNS settings.
Before You Start
Make sure your Namecheap domain is using its default nameservers before you begin. This prevents connection errors and keeps things running smoothly. If you're thinking about transferring your domain to Squarespace entirely (rather than just connecting it), that's a different process with its own benefits for management.
Your Two Connection Options
The method you choose depends on your setup. If you're running custom DNS records for email or other services, you'll want to pay attention to which option preserves those settings.
Nameserver Connect (Recommended)
This is the simpler route. Squarespace takes over your domain's DNS entirely.
- Log into Squarespace and head to Settings > Domains
- Click 'Use a domain I own' and type in your domain name
- Check that the domain isn't already connected to another Squarespace account
- Hit 'Get Started' and log into your Namecheap account when prompted
- In Namecheap, change your nameservers to:
- connect1.squarespacedns.com
- connect2.squarespacedns.com
- Save the changes and complete the setup in Squarespace
DNS Connect
This keeps your current nameservers but adds the records Squarespace needs. Use this if you have custom DNS settings you want to keep.
- Start the same way – go to Settings > Domains in Squarespace
- Enter your domain and choose 'No, use DNS records' instead of changing nameservers
- Select Namecheap from the provider list and log in
- Let Squarespace add the DNS records it needs
- Wait for the 'Connection in progress' message
Quick tip: If you go with DNS Connect, double-check your custom DNS records are still there after the connection completes. Refresh the DNS settings in Squarespace to make sure everything looks right.
What Happens Next
Your domain connection will take 24-48 hours to fully work. This is normal – it's called propagation, and it's just how the internet updates domain information.
You can check progress in your Squarespace domain settings. The status will update as things connect.
TL;DR:
FAQs
How long does domain connection take?
Usually 24-48 hours for everything to work properly. Sometimes it happens faster, but give it the full 48 hours before worrying.
My domain still isn't working after 72 hours – what now?
Check your DNS settings are pointing to the right place. You might need to manually adjust some records. Look at your domain settings in both Namecheap and Squarespace to spot any mismatches.
Can I switch from Nameserver Connect to DNS Connect later?
Yes, you can change methods if the first one doesn't work for your setup. DNS Connect gives you more control over individual DNS records if you need that flexibility.
Jargon Buster
Nameserver Connect: Changes your domain's nameservers so Squarespace handles all your DNS settings. Simpler but gives you less control.
DNS Connect: Adds specific DNS records without changing nameservers. Keeps your existing DNS setup while connecting to Squarespace.
Domain Propagation: The time it takes for DNS changes to spread across the internet. Usually 24-48 hours.
Wrap-up
Connecting your Namecheap domain to Squarespace works well when you follow the right steps for your situation. Pick Nameserver Connect for simplicity, or DNS Connect if you need to keep custom settings. Give it a couple of days to fully connect, and check your settings if things seem off after that.
Both Squarespace and Namecheap support can help if you run into problems, but most connections go smoothly with these steps.
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