How to Link Your GoDaddy Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- You can connect your GoDaddy domain to Squarespace while keeping it registered with GoDaddy
- Two main methods: Nameserver Connect (recommended) and DNS Connect
- Nameserver Connect doesn't work for .ca, .au, or .com.au domains
- Connection takes 24-48 hours depending on which method you use
You don't need to transfer your domain from GoDaddy to use it with Squarespace. The connection process is straightforward once you know which method to use.
Before You Start
Check your domain meets Squarespace's requirements for third-party domains. Remove any existing DNS records on GoDaddy that might clash with the connection.
If you're connecting a subdomain (like blog.yourdomain.com), you'll need to follow the specific steps for third-party subdomains instead.
Start the connection with GoDaddy's default nameservers in place. This prevents errors during setup.
Choosing Your Connection Method
Pick between two methods based on your domain extension and any custom settings you have (like email or DNSSEC):
Nameserver Connect works for most domains but isn't available for .ca, .au, and .com.au extensions.
DNS Connect is what you need for those exceptions or if you have custom DNS records you want to keep.
Nameserver Connect
This is the recommended method for most domains:
- Open the Squarespace Domains panel
- Select 'Use a domain I own' and enter your domain
- Choose 'Get Started' under the GoDaddy connection section
- Log into GoDaddy when prompted and update to these nameservers:
connect1.squarespacedns.comconnect2.squarespacedns.com
- Save the changes and complete the connection on Squarespace
DNS Connect
Use this method for .ca, .au, and .com.au domains, or if you need to keep custom DNS records:
- Open the Squarespace Domains panel
- Choose 'Use a domain I own', enter your domain and select 'Connect domain'
- When prompted to use DNS records, confirm and log into your GoDaddy account
- This method sets up the necessary DNS records automatically
Go with Nameserver Connect unless you have specific reasons to use DNS Connect. It's simpler and generally more reliable.
Monitoring and Troubleshooting
Connection times vary by method. Nameserver Connect usually takes up to 24 hours, while DNS Connect can take up to 48 hours.
Track your connection progress in the Domains panel on Squarespace. You'll see status updates as things process.
If you run into problems: Make sure your nameservers are set to default, log out of GoDaddy completely, disconnect any previous connections, and try the manual connection process again.
FAQs
Can I connect multiple Squarespace sites to one GoDaddy domain?
No, you can only connect one Squarespace site to a GoDaddy domain at a time.
What if my domain ends in .ca, .au, or .com.au?
Use the DNS Connect method. Nameserver Connect won't work for these domain extensions.
I'm seeing errors after connecting my domain. What's wrong?
This is often normal while DNS propagation happens. If problems continue after 48 hours, double-check your DNS settings and make sure you followed all the steps correctly.
Do I need to transfer my domain from GoDaddy?
No, you can keep your domain registered with GoDaddy and just connect it to Squarespace.
Jargon Buster
Nameserver Connect: Changes your domain's nameserver settings to point to Squarespace's nameservers.
DNS Connect: Adds specific DNS records without changing your nameservers.
DNS Records: Settings that control how your domain handles web traffic, email, and other services.
DNS Propagation: The time it takes for DNS changes to spread across the internet.
Wrap-up
Connecting your GoDaddy domain to Squarespace is straightforward once you know which method to use. Most domains work fine with Nameserver Connect, but certain extensions need DNS Connect instead.
The process takes 24-48 hours to complete, so don't panic if things don't work immediately. Regular checks in your Squarespace Domains panel will show you how the connection is progressing.
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