Squarespace Built-in Domains Explained
TL;DR:
- Every Squarespace site gets a built-in domain (yourSiteID.squarespace.com)
- You'll see this domain in your address bar when logged in
- Custom domains show to visitors but don't replace the built-in domain everywhere
- You can change your site ID to personalise your built-in domain
- The built-in domain stays active even with a custom domain connected
Every Squarespace site comes with a built-in domain that follows the format 'yourSiteID.squarespace.com'. This domain is created automatically using randomly generated words or characters, and it sticks around permanently, even when you add a custom domain later.
What You'll See vs What Visitors See
When you're logged into your Squarespace site, you'll see the built-in domain in your browser's address bar. Your visitors, however, will see your custom domain if you've set one up. But here's the thing – anyone who knows Squarespace can still access your site through the built-in domain by looking at your site's source code or finding it through the login screen.
Built-in Domain vs Custom Domain
The built-in domain is what Squarespace gives you automatically. It always ends in .squarespace.com and uses whatever site ID was generated or chosen. A custom domain is one you buy separately and connect to your site, like 'yourbusiness.com'. Custom domains look more professional and help with branding, but they don't replace the built-in domain – they work alongside it.
Finding and Changing Your Built-in Domain
You can find your built-in domain easily by looking at the address bar when you're logged into your site. If you need to change the site ID part (the bit before .squarespace.com), here's how:
- Go to the Domains panel in your Squarespace dashboard
- Click on 'Built-In Domain'
- Enter your preferred Site ID
- Save your changes
If someone's already taken your preferred Site ID, you'll need to pick something else. Shorter names work better – they're easier to remember and type if you ever need to share the built-in domain for support or administrative reasons.
Why This Matters
Understanding how built-in domains work helps when you're troubleshooting issues or working with Squarespace support. Sometimes you'll need to access your site through the built-in domain rather than your custom one, especially if there are DNS issues or other technical problems.
FAQs
Can I completely remove my built-in domain?
No, every Squarespace site keeps its built-in domain. You can change the site ID part, but the domain itself stays active.
Will my custom domain override the built-in domain everywhere?
Your custom domain is what visitors see, but the built-in domain remains accessible and visible to you when logged in.
How do I find my built-in domain?
Look at your browser's address bar when you're logged into your site. It's usually visible before "/config" in the URL.
Can I use my built-in domain as my main website address?
Yes, but it's not recommended for business or professional sites since it doesn't look as polished as a custom domain.
Jargon Buster
Built-in Domain: The default web address Squarespace gives every site, formatted as yourSiteID.squarespace.com
Custom Domain: A personalised web address you purchase and connect to your Squarespace site
Site ID: The customisable part of your built-in domain that comes before .squarespace.com
Domain Panel: The section in your Squarespace settings where you manage all your domains
Wrap-up
Built-in domains are a permanent part of how Squarespace works. They're useful for site management and support, even when you have a custom domain doing the heavy lifting for your visitors. If you're having domain issues or need to give someone access to your site, knowing how to find and modify your built-in domain will save you time and hassle.
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