Squarespace Domain and DNS Transfer Issues
Moving domains to Squarespace or updating DNS settings can turn into a proper headache. One minute everything looks fine, the next you're staring at error messages or your old site is still showing up. Here's how to sort it out.
TL;DR:
- Transferred domains often don't connect straight away, showing old sites or server errors
- DNS settings might not update properly, breaking SSL certificates
- Check your domain status with who.is and use Google's DNS checker to see what's happening
- Delete and re-add DNS records if they're not saving properly
- External DNS providers like Cloudflare can solve persistent issues
- Keep pushing support with detailed follow-ups if problems drag on
Common Problems After Domain Transfers
Your Domain Won't Connect
You've transferred your domain to Squarespace, but visitors are getting "server not found" errors or seeing your old website. This happens more often than it should, and it's usually down to DNS records not updating properly or nameservers pointing to the wrong place.
DNS Settings Won't Stick
You update your DNS records, hit save, and nothing happens. Or worse, your SSL certificate stops working because the changes aren't taking effect. Sometimes the settings appear to save but don't actually update on Squarespace's end.
These issues usually come down to propagation delays, DNS records getting misaligned, or Squarespace's system not registering your changes properly. Support can be slow to respond, which makes the whole thing more frustrating.
How to Fix DNS and Domain Issues
Check Your Domain Status
Head to https://who.is and look up your domain. This shows you where your domain is registered and which nameservers it's using. If the nameservers aren't pointing to Squarespace, that's your problem right there.
Use Google's DNS Checker
Go to https://dns.google and search for your domain. This shows you how your domain is resolving around the world. If you're seeing different results in different locations, give it some time for the changes to spread.
Reset Your DNS Records
Sometimes you need to delete your DNS records completely and add them back. This can kick Squarespace's system into gear. Focus on your A records and CNAME records first, as these are the most important for getting your site to load.
Consider External DNS
If you're constantly battling with Squarespace's DNS, try using an external provider like Cloudflare. You'll get more control and usually better reliability. Point your nameservers to Cloudflare, then manage all your DNS records there.
Push Support Harder
If none of this works, don't just send one support ticket and wait. Follow up with detailed information about what you've tried and what you're seeing. The more specific you are, the faster they can help you.
Squarespace Version Differences
These DNS issues affect both Squarespace 7.1 and 7.0 sites equally. The domain management interface looks slightly different between versions, but the underlying problems and solutions are the same.
FAQs
Why doesn't my domain work after transferring to Squarespace?
Usually it's because DNS records haven't updated properly or there are propagation delays. Sometimes Squarespace's system doesn't register the changes on their end.
How long should DNS changes take to work?
Normally 24-48 hours, but it can be longer if there are issues with how the records are set up. You can check progress using Google's DNS checker.
Should I use Squarespace's DNS or an external provider?
If you're having constant problems with Squarespace's DNS, an external provider like Cloudflare often works better and gives you more control.
What if my SSL certificate breaks during the transfer?
This usually happens when DNS records aren't updating properly. Try resetting your DNS records or contact support to regenerate the certificate.
Jargon Buster
DNS (Domain Name System) – The system that translates your domain name into an IP address so browsers can find your website
Propagation Delay – The time it takes for DNS changes to spread across all servers worldwide
SSL Certificate – The security certificate that encrypts data between your website and visitors
Nameservers – The servers that hold your DNS records and tell browsers where to find your website
A Records – DNS records that point your domain to your website's IP address
CNAME Records – DNS records that create aliases for your domain, like making www.yoursite.com point to yoursite.com
Wrap-up
Domain and DNS transfers don't have to be a nightmare, but they often are. The key is knowing what to check and not giving up when the first attempt doesn't work. Most of these issues aren't your fault – they're common problems that happen to everyone.
If you're still stuck, don't suffer in silence. Join the Pixelhaze community where you can get help from people who've been through the same issues.
Ready to get proper support with your Squarespace challenges? Join Pixelhaze Academy for expert guidance and a community that actually helps.