How to Manage Parked Domains on Squarespace

Learn how to set up, troubleshoot, and manage your parked domain on Squarespace.

How to Manage Parked Domains on Squarespace
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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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Learn to set up and manage parked domains on Squarespace, including DNS settings, connecting to live sites, and using Google Workspace for email. Parked domains display a basic page and can't show ads or custom content.
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How to Manage Parked Domains on Squarespace

Learn how to set up, troubleshoot, and manage your parked domain on Squarespace.
Tags: Squarespace, Domain Management, Parked Domains, DNS Settings, Website Design, Google Workspace

TL;DR: Key Points

  • Squarespace parked domains show a simple background with just the domain name
  • Parking a domain means setting up the correct DNS records
  • Parked domains can't display your ads or support custom code
  • To activate a parked domain, connect it to a Squarespace site or redirect it elsewhere
  • Cancelling a subscription removes the domain's parked status
  • Google Workspace works with parked domains

What is Domain Parking?

When you register a domain but aren't ready to build a website, you can park it. This displays a basic Squarespace parking page with just your domain name and a plain background. It's perfect for securing a domain name while you plan your website.

Setting Up Your Parked Domain

Standard Setup

When you register or transfer a domain to Squarespace, it automatically gets default DNS records. These records point visitors to the parking page instead of a live website.

Fixing Common Problems

If visitors see error messages when accessing your domain, your DNS settings are probably wrong or missing. Here's how to fix them:
  1. Open your Domains dashboard in Squarespace
  1. Select your domain
  1. Click DNS settings
  1. Select 'Add preset', then choose 'Add Squarespace defaults'
Pixelhaze Tip: Always check your DNS settings first if people can't access your domain. Wrong DNS records are the most common cause of access problems.

Managing Your Parked Domain

Updating Ownership and Billing

You can change domain ownership or billing details from your Domains dashboard. Make sure to update your contact email since you'll need it for important domain notifications.

Making Your Domain Live

Ready to move from parked status to a live site? Here's how:
  1. Go to your domain's details page in the Domains dashboard
  1. Click 'Website'
  1. Click 'Get started' to connect to a new or existing Squarespace site
You can also redirect your domain to a website outside Squarespace by updating the DNS records to point to the new site.

Using Google Workspace

Even parked domains work with Google Workspace. This lets you set up custom email addresses using your domain, plus access Google Calendar and Google Drive. Check Squarespace's Google Workspace integration guide to get started.

Common Questions

Can I show my own ads on a parked domain? No. Parked domains only display the simple background and domain name. You can't add custom ads or content.
Can I go back to a parking page after cancelling my Squarespace subscription? Once you've connected your domain to a live site, you can't revert it back to parked status.
Can I connect a third-party domain to a Squarespace parking page? To manage a third-party domain with Squarespace, you need to upgrade to a full website plan.

Quick Definitions

DNS Records: Settings that connect your domain name to the server hosting your site. They tell internet traffic where to go.
Google Workspace: Google's business tools (email, calendar, file storage) that you can connect to your domain for a professional setup.

Wrapping Up

Managing a parked Squarespace domain is straightforward once you understand the basics. Whether you're holding a domain for future use or setting up professional email addresses, getting your domain settings right is the foundation of your online presence. Take time to check your DNS settings and keep your contact details updated.

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