How to Point Your Squarespace Domain to Another Site
TL;DR:
- Point your Squarespace domain or subdomain to a different website using DNS settings
- Requires changing CNAME and A records in your DNS panel
- Your domain must use Squarespace nameservers for changes to work
- Changes can take 24-48 hours to go live
- Works for domains that need redirection but can't be transferred
- Back up your DNS settings before making changes
Understanding Domain Pointing
Domain pointing changes where your domain URL sends visitors but keeps your domain name in their browser address bar. This works well when you need your domain to connect to a different website that isn't hosted on Squarespace, like a separate online store or blog.
Before You Start
Check Pointing vs. Forwarding: Make sure you need pointing (redirecting traffic to another host while keeping your domain visible) rather than forwarding (redirecting traffic and changing the URL visitors see).
Nameserver Settings: Your domain must use Squarespace nameservers. If your domain uses third-party nameservers, you'll need to make adjustments through that provider instead.
Pointing Your Domain
Step 1: Prepare Your DNS Settings
Log into your Squarespace account and go to the Domains dashboard. Select the domain you want to adjust, then click 'DNS Settings'. Remove any default records that might interfere with pointing by clicking the red trash can icon.
Always back up your DNS settings before making changes in case you need to revert them later.
Step 2: Add a CNAME Record
In the DNS Settings, under Custom Records, click 'Add Record'. Choose 'CNAME' from the Type dropdown. Set 'Host' to www and 'Data' to the URL your new hosting provider gave you. Save the settings.
Step 3: Add an A Record
Still under Custom Records, select 'Add'. Choose 'A' from the Type dropdown, set 'Host' to @, and enter the IP address your new host provided in the 'Data' field. These changes can take 24 to 48 hours to become active.
Test the redirection in a private browser window to make sure everything works correctly.
Pointing a Subdomain
If you're pointing a subdomain, follow similar steps but make sure the subdomain hasn't been set up as a separate third-party domain in Squarespace. For the 'Host' field in your DNS records, use the specific subdomain instead of 'www' (like 'blog' for blog.yourdomain.com).
Pay close attention to existing DNS configurations when managing subdomains to avoid conflicts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
DNS Conflict Alert: This happens if the subdomain you're trying to point already exists as a linked domain. Remove it from third-party domains to fix this.
DNS Changes Delay: DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to spread across the internet. You'll need to wait it out.
Error Messages: If you get specific errors, check Squarespace's common DNS error messages guide or contact their support team.
FAQs
How long does it take for DNS changes to take effect?
Usually 24 to 48 hours.
Can I point multiple domains at once?
No, you need to point each domain individually. There's no batch option.
What's the difference between pointing a domain and a subdomain?
The process is similar, but subdomains need specific 'Host' entries in DNS records.
Jargon Buster
CNAME Record: Links your subdomain to another domain's DNS entries.
A Record: Directs your domain or subdomain to a specific IP address.
Nameservers: Servers that manage the DNS records for your domain.
Wrap-up
Pointing your Squarespace domain to a new site might sound technical, but these steps will get your visitors to their new destination. Remember that changes aren't instant and can take up to two days to work properly. If you run into problems, Squarespace's support team can help with real-time assistance.
Ready to dive deeper into advanced Squarespace techniques? Join Pixelhaze Academy for expert guidance and step-by-step tutorials.