How to Find Your Domain Provider
TL;DR:
- Check your domain provider to manage transfers and settings like MX records
- Use ICANN lookup tools or check your Squarespace dashboard for provider details
- Former Google Domains users now manage domains directly through Squarespace
- If Tucows appears as your registrar, Squarespace might still be your actual provider
Finding your domain provider is essential when you need to transfer your domain or set up email services through Google Workspace. Here's how to track down who actually manages your domain.
Use ICANN's Lookup Tools
The most reliable way to find your domain provider is through official lookup tools:
- Visit the ICANN Lookup tool or the ACID tool
- Enter your domain name and click 'Lookup' or 'Check'
- Look for your registrar's details in the 'Registrar' and 'Registrar URL' sections
- If you only see an IANA ID, use that number to find the corresponding registrar
This method works for any domain, regardless of where you bought it.
Check Your Squarespace Dashboard
If you're using Squarespace, your dashboard shows provider information clearly:
- Log into your Squarespace account
- Open the domains dashboard
- Look at the 'Provider' column next to your domain name
For users who moved from Google Domains to Squarespace, log in using your Google account email to access your migrated domains.
Understanding Tucows and Reseller Domains
Sometimes the registrar information can be confusing. If you see Tucows listed as your registrar but you bought through Squarespace, don't panic. Squarespace uses Tucows as their backend provider for some domains.
Check your Squarespace domain dashboard to see what's listed at the top of your domain's page. This tells you who you actually need to contact for support.
Resold domains work differently. These are Squarespace domains purchased through third-party resellers. You might need to manage different aspects through both Squarespace and the reseller, depending on what you're trying to change.
When Google Domains Became Squarespace
If your domain was originally with Google Domains, it's now managed by Squarespace. You can access your domain using the same Google account email you used before. The transition moved your domain registration to Squarespace's system.
FAQs
How can I identify my domain provider?
Use ICANN's lookup tools for the most accurate information, or check your Squarespace dashboard if you're using their platform. Whois records also show registrar details.
What should I do if Tucows appears as my registrar?
Check your Squarespace domain dashboard first. Squarespace often uses Tucows as their backend provider, so Squarespace might still be your actual point of contact.
What if my domain is resold through Squarespace?
You'll manage different aspects through both Squarespace and your reseller. Check Squarespace's guide on managing resold domains for specific steps on what goes where.
Jargon Buster
Domain Provider or Registrar: The company responsible for registering and managing your domain name.
MX Records: Email routing settings in your domain configuration that tell email where to go.
ICANN: The nonprofit organization that coordinates domain names and IP addresses globally.
Whois Records: Public database entries that show who registered a domain and through which registrar.
Wrap-up
Finding your domain provider doesn't have to be complicated. Start with the ICANN lookup tools for definitive information, then cross-reference with your platform dashboards. Once you know who manages your domain, you can handle transfers, email setup, and other configurations with confidence.
If you run into issues, most providers offer direct support to help you sort out any confusion about domain management.
Ready to master more Squarespace fundamentals? Join Pixelhaze Academy for step-by-step guidance on domains, design, and everything in between.