Managing .de Domains on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- You need a German address to register or transfer a .de domain to Squarespace
- No domain locking for .de domains, making transfers easier
- Keep your payment method updated to avoid domain expiration
- Use Denic's NAST tool to validate custom nameservers before setup
- You can transfer domains away from Squarespace without waiting periods
Managing a .de domain on Squarespace comes with specific requirements that differ from other domain extensions. Here's what you need to know to handle the process smoothly.
Address Requirements
You must provide a valid German address when registering or transferring your .de domain to Squarespace. This isn't optional. The registry requires it, and failing to maintain this address could lead to domain suspension without refund.
If you don't have a German address, you'll need to use a domain registrar that offers proxy services or find an alternative solution before attempting to register through Squarespace.
Registration and Renewal
.de domains can only be registered or renewed for one year at a time. Squarespace automatically charges renewal fees 15 days before your domain's expiration date.
There's no grace period for cancellations or refunds with .de domains, so double-check your domain spelling and details before confirming registration.
Domain Settings and Management
Nameservers
Before setting up custom nameservers, run them through Denic's Name Server Tester (NAST) tool. This validates that your nameservers meet the registry's security and operational standards. Settings that don't pass this test will be rejected.
Payment and Expiry
Keep a valid payment method on file in your Squarespace dashboard. If payment fails, your domain enters TRANSIT status at the DENIC registry, which can lead to loss of ownership.
Set up alerts or calendar reminders for renewal dates. Check your dashboard regularly for upcoming charges.
Transferring .de Domains
Moving to Squarespace
Review your DNS records before starting the transfer. Remove any DNSSEC records as these can block the transfer process. When you successfully transfer to Squarespace, you'll get one additional year of registration.
Moving from Squarespace
.de domains don't have transfer restrictions, so you can initiate a transfer anytime without waiting 60 days. Request the transfer code from your Squarespace dashboard and provide it to your new registrar.
Domain Privacy
Whois privacy isn't available for .de domains due to registry regulations. Your contact information will be visible in public Whois records.
FAQs
Can I manage a .de domain on Squarespace with a non-German address?
No, you must use a valid German address to register or transfer a .de domain.
How do I prevent my .de domain from expiring?
Keep an updated payment method in your Squarespace dashboard and monitor renewal dates. Set up calendar reminders for 30 days before expiry.
Why can't I enable Whois privacy on my .de domain?
The .de registry doesn't support Whois privacy protection due to their specific regulations.
What happens if my nameservers fail the NAST test?
Your nameserver settings will be rejected. You'll need to fix the issues and resubmit them through the testing tool.
Jargon Buster
TLD (Top-Level Domain): The final part of a domain name like .com, .org, or .de
DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions): Security protocols that protect DNS responses from tampering
Whois Privacy: A service that hides your contact information in public domain records (not available for .de domains)
TRANSIT Status: A registry status that occurs when domain payments fail, potentially leading to domain loss
Wrap-up
Managing .de domains on Squarespace requires attention to specific requirements, particularly the German address requirement and payment schedules. The lack of domain locking makes transfers easier, but you need to stay on top of renewals and nameserver requirements.
If you need more detailed guidance on domain management or Squarespace setup, check out our comprehensive courses at https://www.pixelhaze.academy/membership