How to Transfer Your Domain from Hover to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Unlock your Hover domain and get the transfer authorization code
- Update and verify your contact information with the domain
- Start the transfer on Squarespace using the authorization code
- Confirm payment details and complete the transfer in Squarespace
- Approve the transfer via email from Hover and monitor the status
Step 1: Log into Your Hover Account
Visit Hover's website and log in through the Control Panel in the top-right corner. Select the domain you want to transfer from your account dashboard.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain
A locked domain can't be transferred, so you need to unlock it first. Find the Transfer Lock toggle under the domain details and switch it to 'off'. You can lock it again after the transfer for security.
Step 3: Get the Authorization Code
This code is essential for transferring your domain. Click 'Retrieve' next to the Authorization Code section to display it. Copy this code and keep it safe for the Squarespace transfer process.
Step 4: Check Your Contact Information
Make sure your contact details are accurate. Review and update the administrative contact details under Registration Records so you receive all transfer-related emails.
Step 5: Start the Transfer on Squarespace
In your Squarespace account, go to the Domains panel and select 'Use a domain I own.' Enter your domain name, paste the authorization code you got from Hover, and continue.
Step 6: Confirm Details and Payment
Review the registration information that populates automatically and make any needed changes. Confirm your payment method and note that you'll be charged for an additional year of domain registration as part of the transfer.
Step 7: Approve the Transfer from Hover
Hover will email you to confirm the transfer. You must approve it using the link in the email. If you don't click it, Hover will automatically approve the transfer after five days.
Step 8: Monitor the Transfer Progress
Check your domain transfer status in Squarespace. Look for a 'Transfer in progress' message. If there are issues like domain lock or incorrect authorization codes, fix them as indicated.
Review DNS Settings (Optional)
While waiting, you might want to check your DNS settings. Access these under the pending domain in the Squarespace panel. You can adjust or add records as needed, but keep essential email service records intact.
Final Step: Transfer Complete
Once Hover releases the domain to Squarespace, you'll get a notification. Your domain management will now be handled entirely within Squarespace.
FAQs
What if my domain transfer is still pending after 15 days?
If the transfer isn't complete after 15 days, contact Hover for more details on what's causing the delay.
Can I cancel a domain transfer if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel a transfer while it's still pending. Check the specific guidelines in your Squarespace settings for how to do this.
What should I do if the domain transfer fails?
If a transfer fails, Squarespace will notify you. Contact Hover support for clarification or consider keeping your domain with Hover and connecting it to Squarespace instead.
Jargon Buster
Authorization Code: A secure code from your current registrar (Hover) needed to approve transferring your domain to another registrar (Squarespace).
DNS Settings: Settings that connect your domain name to your server's IP address. These direct traffic to your website.
TLD (Top-Level Domain): The last part of a domain name, like .com or .org, that specifies the domain's category or country code.
Wrap-up
Transferring your domain from Hover to Squarespace puts your website and domain management in one place. Follow these steps carefully and pay attention to the confirmation phases. If you run into problems, both Hover and Squarespace have support teams that can help you through the process.
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