Transfer a 1&1 IONOS Domain to Squarespace
Moving your domain from 1&1 IONOS to Squarespace puts everything in one place. You'll manage your domain settings and billing through your Squarespace account instead of juggling two separate services.
The process is fairly straightforward, but you need to get a few things sorted with IONOS first before Squarespace can take over.
### TL;DR:
- Get your domain unlocked and grab the authorization code from 1&1 IONOS first
- Start the transfer process in your Squarespace Domains panel
- Transfers typically take 5-7 days to complete
- Don't cancel your IONOS account until the transfer is confirmed
- Avoid making DNS changes while the transfer is in progress
Step-by-Step Transfer Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your 1&1 IONOS Domain
Log into your 1&1 IONOS account and head to the Domains & SSL page. If you're using a US or CA control panel, you might need to select the relevant package first.
Check your contact information under the 'Privacy & Contact Details' tab. This needs to be accurate because IONOS and Squarespace will send important transfer updates to these details.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain
Go to the 'Renewal & Transfer' tab in your IONOS account. Look for the domain transfer lock toggle. If it's blue, your domain is locked. Click it to turn it gray and unlock the domain.
Most domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers, so don't worry if you find it locked initially.
Step 3: Get Your Authorization Code
In the 'Change provider' section, click 'Show Authorization Code'. Copy this code and save it somewhere secure. You'll need it for the next step, and IONOS won't let you transfer without it.
This code acts like a password that proves you own the domain and have permission to move it.
Step 4: Start the Transfer in Squarespace
Open the Domains panel in your Squarespace account. Select 'Use a domain I own', type in your domain name, then choose 'Transfer domain'.
When prompted, enter the authorization code you grabbed from IONOS. Double-check you've typed it correctly because any mistakes will cause the transfer to fail.
Step 5: Review and Confirm
Check that Squarespace has pulled in the correct registration details. Review the payment information and transfer charges before confirming the purchase.
Once you confirm, the transfer request goes to IONOS and the waiting period begins.
Important: Don't make DNS changes or add services like Google Workspace while the transfer is in progress. Wait until everything is complete to avoid complications.
### FAQs
What happens if my transfer fails?
Squarespace will email you with the specific reason. Common issues include incorrect authorization codes, locked domains, or outdated contact information. Fix the problem and try again.
Can I cancel a transfer once it's started?
Yes, but you need to act quickly. Check Squarespace's help docs for the exact steps to cancel a pending transfer.
Will my website go down during the transfer?
No, your website will stay online. The transfer only moves the domain registration, not your actual website files or DNS settings.
What if I need to update my domain settings during the transfer?
Wait until the transfer completes. Making changes during the transfer can cause problems or delays.
### Jargon Buster
Domain Transfer – Moving your domain registration from one company to another (like from IONOS to Squarespace)
Authorization Code – A security code from your current registrar that proves you own the domain and can transfer it
WHOIS Records – Public database information showing who owns a domain and their contact details
DNS Settings – Technical configurations that tell browsers where to find your website when someone types in your domain
### Wrap-up
Transferring from 1&1 IONOS to Squarespace mainly involves getting your domain unlocked and obtaining the authorization code. The actual transfer happens behind the scenes once you've submitted the request.
Keep your IONOS account active until you get confirmation that the transfer is complete. After that, you can manage everything from your Squarespace dashboard.
The whole process usually takes about a week, so don't panic if it doesn't happen immediately. Both companies will keep you updated via email as things progress.
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