How to Add and Manage DNS Records for Your Domain

How to Add and Manage DNS Records for Your Domain

By Michael Thompson

January 14, 2025 at 11:04 AM

Adding DNS records to your domain enables connection with third-party services and enhances website security. Here's how to manage DNS records effectively:

Prerequisites for DNS Management:

  • Must have a Squarespace-managed domain or
  • Domain connected via Nameserver Connect
  • Third-party domains using DNS Connect must be edited through their respective providers

Accessing DNS Settings:

  1. Open domain dashboard
  2. Select domain name
  3. Click DNS settings

Common DNS Record Types:

  • A Records: Connect domain to IPv4 address
  • AAAA Records: Connect domain to IPv6 address
  • CNAME Records: Link subdomain to another domain
  • MX Records: Direct email routing
  • TXT Records: Store text information
  • DKIM/SPF Records: Email authentication
  • DMARC Records: Email security policy

Customizing TTL (Time To Live):

  • Default: 4 hours
  • Customizable range: 1 second to 2147483648 seconds
  • Affects record cache duration

Deleting DNS Records:

  1. Navigate to DNS settings
  2. Locate Custom Records section
  3. Hover over record
  4. Click trash can icon
  5. Save changes Note: Changes may take 24-72 hours to propagate

Best Practices:

  • Only modify DNS records when necessary
  • Document changes made
  • Verify third-party requirements before modifications
  • Allow sufficient time for propagation
  • Back up existing configurations

Common Use Cases:

  • Email service setup
  • Domain forwarding
  • Third-party service integration
  • Website security enhancement
  • Domain ownership verification

Remember to verify all changes with your service provider's documentation and allow proper propagation time before troubleshooting any issues.

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