Table of Contents
- Linking Your Domain to Squarespace: A Guide
- Understanding Domain Connection Options
- Overview of Nameserver Connect and DNS Connect
- Managing DNS Settings Updates
- Modifying DNS Records After Connection
- When to Opt Out of Nameserver Connect
- Choosing DNS Connect Instead
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Terms Explained
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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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Learn how to connect your domain to Squarespace using either Nameserver Connect for simpler management or DNS Connect for maintaining existing setups. Choose based on your needs, especially if you have custom email or multiple subdomains.
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Linking Your Domain to Squarespace: A Guide
Learn how to connect third-party domains to your Squarespace site.
When you're ready to connect your own domain to Squarespace, you've got two options: Nameserver Connect and DNS Connect. The choice between them depends on how complex your setup is and where you want to manage your DNS records.
Here's what you need to know about each method and when to use them.
Understanding Domain Connection Options
Overview of Nameserver Connect and DNS Connect
Nameserver Connect moves all your domain's DNS records into Squarespace. This means you'll manage everything from your Squarespace dashboard - your website, email settings, and any other DNS records. It's the simpler option if you're starting fresh or don't have complex email setups.
DNS Connect leaves your DNS records with your current domain provider. You only point your domain to Squarespace for the website itself, whilst everything else (like email routing) stays put. This works better if you've already got custom email setups, multiple subdomains, or other services running on your domain.
Most people find Nameserver Connect easier to manage day-to-day, but DNS Connect gives you more control if you need it.
Managing DNS Settings Updates
Modifying DNS Records After Connection
Where you make changes depends on which connection method you chose.
With Nameserver Connect, you'll handle all DNS changes through your Squarespace dashboard. Go to Settings > Domains, click on your domain, then use the DNS Settings panel to add or edit records.
With DNS Connect, you'll still need to log into your domain provider's control panel (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or whoever you bought the domain from) to make any DNS changes. Squarespace only handles the website connection.
This matters when you need to set up things like email forwarding, add subdomains, or connect other services to your domain.
When to Opt Out of Nameserver Connect
Choosing DNS Connect Instead
You should stick with DNS Connect (and avoid Nameserver Connect) if you:
- Have custom email setups that you don't want to break
- Use multiple subdomains for different services
- Run other applications or services on your domain
- Work with a developer who manages your DNS records
To use DNS Connect, simply choose this option when connecting your domain in Squarespace. You'll find it in Settings > Domains when you add your domain. Instead of changing nameservers, you'll add CNAME and A records at your domain provider.
If you're unsure which method to choose, DNS Connect is the safer option. It won't disrupt anything you've already got running on your domain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Nameserver Connect and DNS Connect?
Nameserver Connect moves all your domain's DNS management to Squarespace, making it easier to handle everything in one place. DNS Connect keeps your DNS records with your current provider and only connects the website portion to Squarespace.
How do I edit DNS records after connecting my domain?
It depends on your connection method. With Nameserver Connect, use your Squarespace dashboard under Settings > Domains. With DNS Connect, log into your domain provider's control panel.
I have a complex domain setup with custom email and subdomains. Which method should I use?
Use DNS Connect. It won't interfere with your existing setup and lets you keep all your current configurations running whilst adding your Squarespace website.
Key Terms Explained
Nameserver Connect: Moves your domain's DNS management to Squarespace's servers.
DNS Connect: Keeps DNS management with your domain provider whilst connecting just the website to Squarespace.
DNS Records: Settings that control where different parts of your domain point (website, email, subdomains, etc.).
Domain Provider: The company where you registered your domain name (GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.).
CNAME Records: DNS records that point one domain name to another domain name.
A Records: DNS records that point your domain to a specific IP address where your website lives.
Connecting your domain to Squarespace is straightforward once you understand these two methods. Choose Nameserver Connect for simplicity if you're starting fresh, or DNS Connect if you need to preserve existing setups. Both work well - it's just about picking the right one for your situation.