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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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Squarespace
dns management
domain management
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To add NS records in Squarespace, first disable DNSSEC, then enter your NS record details in the DNS settings. Changes may take 24-48 hours to propagate. If issues arise, ensure DNSSEC is off and verify the provided data is correct.
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How to Add NS Records in Squarespace
NS (Name Server) records let you point subdomains to different servers or set up DNS security with DNSSEC. If you need to direct mail.yourdomain.com to a different mail server, or set up other subdomains, here's how to add NS records in Squarespace.
Before You Start: Turn Off DNSSEC
You must disable DNSSEC before adding NS records, or you'll run into conflicts:
- Go to your domains dashboard
- Click your domain name, then DNS, then DNSSEC
- Switch off the toggle next to DNS Security Extensions
- Confirm when prompted
This removes DNSSEC from both your domain and the registry. Always do this first to avoid errors later.
Adding Your NS Records
Once DNSSEC is off, here's how to add the records:
- Get your NS record details from your server provider first
- Open your domains dashboard and click the domain you're working with
- Go to DNS Settings and scroll down to Custom Records
- Click 'Add record'
- Enter your login details if prompted (especially with two-factor authentication on)
- Choose 'NS' from the record type dropdown
- In the Host field, enter your subdomain (like 'mail' for mail.yourdomain.com). Squarespace adds your main domain automatically
- Paste the NS record data from your server provider into the Data field
- Click 'Save'
Changes take 24-48 hours to work properly across the internet.
Removing NS Records
To switch back to Squarespace's default nameservers:
- Turn off DNSSEC using the steps above
- In your domain's DNS settings, click 'Domain Nameservers'
- Select Squarespace's default nameservers
- Save and wait up to 48 hours
When Things Go Wrong
Getting a "Couldn't add nameserver" error? Your domain is probably still transferring between providers. You can't edit DNS settings during a transfer, so wait until it's complete.
If NS records aren't working after 48 hours, double-check you've disabled DNSSEC and that your server provider gave you the correct data.
Quick Definitions
NS Records: Tell the internet which nameservers handle a specific subdomain like mail.yourdomain.com
DNSSEC: Security feature that prevents attackers from hijacking your DNS requests. Must be turned off before adding custom NS records
DNS Propagation: The time it takes for DNS changes to spread across internet servers worldwide (usually 24-48 hours)
The Key Points
Setting up NS records isn't complicated once you know the steps. Turn off DNSSEC first, add your records carefully, and give them time to work. Whether you're setting up email subdomains or other services, getting your NS records right keeps everything running smoothly.