Adding custom name servers to your DNS records can help manage subdomains on different servers. Here's how to do it properly:

Before You Begin

• This guide applies to domains registered with Squarespace or linked via name servers
• Not applicable for domains linked via DNS (use your external provider's settings instead)

Disable DNSSEC Protection

1. Access the domains control panel
2. Select your domain
3. Navigate to DNS > DNSSEC
4. Turn off DNS Security Extensions
5. Click Confirm when prompted

Add Custom Name Servers

1. Gather NS records from your provider
2. Go to DNS Settings in domains control panel
3. Scroll to Custom Records
4. Click Add Record
5. Select NS as Type
6. Enter provider's host value in Host field
7. Input provider's NS record in Data field
8. Save changes (allow 24-72 hours for propagation)

Remove Custom Name Servers

1. Disable DNSSEC:

   • Navigate to DNS > DNSSEC
   • Disable DNS Security Extensions
   • Confirm changes

2. Restore Squarespace Name Servers:

   • Go to DNS > Domain Name Servers
   • Click Use Squarespace Name Servers
   • Save changes

3. Reactivate DNSSEC:

   • Return to DNS > DNSSEC
   • Enable DNS Security Extensions
   • Confirm changes

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• "Could not add name server": Wait for any pending domain transfers to complete
• Missing DNSSEC disable button: Delete DS records manually from DNSSEC settings
• Allow up to 72 hours for all DNS changes to fully propagate

Remember to maintain proper backups of your DNS configurations before making any changes to prevent service disruptions.

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