How to Connect HostGator Domain to Squarespace: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Connect HostGator Domain to Squarespace: Step-by-Step Guide

By Michael Thompson

March 14, 2025 at 02:04 AM

To connect a HostGator domain to Squarespace, follow these steps:

Prerequisites:

  • Must have a HostGator Shared Hosting plan (Hatchling, Baby, or Business)
  • Domain must remain registered with HostGator
  • Allow 24-72 hours for connection to complete

Step 1: Start Squarespace Connection

  1. Go to Domain Names panel
  2. Click "I already have a domain"
  3. Enter your domain name
  4. Click "Connect Domain"
  5. Select "Other" from dropdown
  6. Click "Continue"
  7. Keep DNS records panel open for reference

Step 2: Access HostGator DNS Settings

  1. Log in to HostGator portal
  2. Click "Hosting" in sidebar
  3. Click "cPanel" for your domain
  4. Under Tools > Domains, click "Zone Editor"
  5. Select "Manage" for your domain
  6. Click "Add Record"

Step 3: Add First CNAME Record

  • Name: [unique code from Squarespace]
  • Type: CNAME
  • Data: verify.squarespace.com

Step 4: Add Second CNAME Record

  • Name: www
  • Type: CNAME
  • Data: ext-cust.squarespace.com

Step 5: Add Four A Records Create records with @ as Name and these IP addresses:

  • 198.185.159.144
  • 198.185.159.145
  • 198.49.23.144
  • 198.49.23.145

Step 6: Wait for Connection

  • Allow 24-72 hours for full connection
  • Monitor progress in Squarespace DNS settings
  • Click "Refresh Records" to check status
  • Look for green labels indicating successful connection

Troubleshooting:

  • Use DNS check tool if you see "Unable to verify domain ownership"
  • Contact HostGator support for account-specific issues
  • Review DNS records if connection fails after 72 hours

Important:

  • Don't delete mail/email records
  • Modify existing records instead of creating duplicates
  • Ensure all records match exactly as specified

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