Table of Contents
- Fixing Third-Party Domain Issues on Squarespace
- Introduction
- Understanding the Connection Process
- Check Your Site
- Review Domain Settings
- Inspect DNS Settings
- Common Connection Errors and Solutions
- CNAME Record Issues
- A Record Troubles
- Extra and Conflicting Records
- Steps to Manually Connect Your Domain
- Monitoring and Finalising Your Connection
- FAQs
- Jargon Buster
- Wrap-up
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Last Edited Time
Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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AI summary
To connect a third-party domain to Squarespace, troubleshoot errors by checking browser messages, reviewing DNS settings for CNAME and A record issues, and removing conflicting records. Allow 24-48 hours for changes to propagate and consult provider guides for specific adjustments.
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Fixing Third-Party Domain Issues on Squarespace
TL;DR: Key Points
- Troubleshooting takes time, typically 24-48 hours for updates
- Check error messages directly in your browser or domain settings
- Resolve specific DNS record errors like CNAME or A record issues
- Delete conflicting or extra records that may hinder proper setup
- Consult provider-specific guides for DNS settings adjustments
- Use TXT records if CNAME adjustments are unsupported by your domain host
Introduction
Connecting a third-party domain (one you bought from services like GoDaddy or Namecheap) to your Squarespace site involves multiple steps and checks. This guide simplifies that process.
Understanding the Connection Process
Check Your Site
Access your site's URL in a browser. Look for error messages, which are your first clue about what might be going wrong.
Review Domain Settings
Navigate to your domain's dashboard, select your domain, and then access 'Domain Settings' to spot potential issues.
Inspect DNS Settings
In the domain settings, select 'View DNS Settings'. Here, you examine critical settings like CNAME or A records. Errors will typically be highlighted in red.
Common Connection Errors and Solutions
CNAME Record Issues
If you're seeing CNAME errors, ensure the record points to the correct Squarespace address without additional domain suffixes.
A Record Troubles
Check if A records match the Squarespace requirements and adjust as necessary.
Extra and Conflicting Records
Remove any unnecessary records that might conflict with Squarespace's requirements.
Steps to Manually Connect Your Domain
- Reset nameservers to provider defaults if issues persist after 48 hours
- Update DNS records manually based on Squarespace's current specifications
Monitoring and Finalising Your Connection
After adjusting your DNS settings, allow 24 to 48 hours for changes to take effect. Refresh the DNS settings in Squarespace to check for consistency or wait out the propagation period.
FAQs
How long should I wait for my third-party domain to connect to Squarespace?
What are the next steps if I encounter SSL certificate errors on my site?
What should I do if my DNS settings panel shows 'record not found' for specific entries?
Jargon Buster
CNAME - Linked or aliased domain names that should point to a canonical (primary) domain.
SSL - Security protocol to ensure protected, encrypted communication over the web.
DNS - A system that translates domain names into IP addresses, making them easy to navigate without remembering complex numbers.
A Record - Directs a domain or subdomain to an IP address, linking the name to the actual server.
Wrap-up
Integrating a third-party domain into your Squarespace site rewards your patience. By following the outlined steps (checking auto-highlighted errors, adjusting records, and deleting unnecessary ones) you ensure a smooth connection. Always allow enough time for changes to propagate and consult specific provider guides for detailed instructions.