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Link Third-Party Domain to Squarespace: A Guide

Streamline linking your external domain to your Squarespace site with ease.

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Link Third-Party Domain to Squarespace: A Guide
Last Edited Time
Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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connecting a domain to squarespace
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Link your third-party domain to Squarespace by updating DNS settings, including CNAME and A Records. Activation typically takes 24 to 48 hours, and multiple domains can be connected. For issues, consult your domain provider's support.
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TL;DR: Key Points

  • You can link a domain purchased from providers like GoDaddy or HostGator to your Squarespace site
  • It generally takes 24 to 48 hours for a domain connection to fully activate
  • You must update DNS settings at your domain provider to point to Squarespace
  • A proper connection requires setting both CNAME and A Records
  • Multiple custom domains can be associated with your Squarespace site
  • If you encounter issues, contact your domain provider's support for adjustments

Understanding Domain Connection Basics

If you've bought a domain through a third-party provider but want to use it with your Squarespace website, you'll need to connect them through a process called DNS mapping. This lets you keep your domain registration with your original provider whilst using it on Squarespace.

Step-by-Step Connection Guide

Step 1: Start the Domain Connection

Access the Domains panel in your Squarespace dashboard:
  1. Go to the Domains panel
  1. Click "Use a Domain I Own"
  1. Type your domain name and click the arrow
  1. Choose your domain provider from the dropdown (or select "Other" if not listed)

Step 2: Update DNS Settings

After starting the connection:
  1. Squarespace will show you the DNS settings you need
  1. Open a new tab and log into your domain provider's account
  1. Find the DNS settings section
  1. Update the existing settings or add new entries following Squarespace's instructions

Step 3: Add the Required Records

For the connection to work, you need these specific DNS records:
  • First CNAME Record: Points to verify.squarespace.com
  • Second CNAME Record: Points to ext-cust.squarespace.com for the 'www' prefix
  • A Records: Connect your main domain using four specific IP addresses that Squarespace provides

Step 4: Check and Troubleshoot

After updating your records:
  1. Wait 24 to 48 hours for the connection to take effect
  1. Check the status in your Squarespace Domain Overview panel
  1. If problems continue, use Squarespace's DNS record checker tool or contact your domain provider
Pixelhaze Tip: Always double-check for typos in your DNS settings. One wrong character can break the entire connection.

FAQs

What if my domain provider isn't listed in Squarespace's dropdown menu?
Simply select "Other" and continue with the same steps.
How long does it take for a third-party domain to connect?
Usually 24 to 48 hours. Factor this in if you're working to a deadline.
Can I connect multiple custom domains to my Squarespace site?
Yes, Squarespace lets you connect multiple domains to one site.

Jargon Buster

  • DNS: Domain Name System - translates the domain names you type into IP addresses that computers understand
  • CNAME: Canonical Name - a DNS record that points one domain name to another
  • A Record: Address Record - links a domain directly to the IP address of the server hosting your website

Wrap-up

Connecting your third-party domain to Squarespace is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully. The key is patience (DNS changes can take up to 48 hours) and accuracy (check those settings twice). If you run into problems, your domain provider's support team can help you get the settings right.

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