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

Prerequisites:

• Confirm you have a HostGator Shared Hosting plan (Hatchling, Baby, or Business)
• Keep your domain registered with HostGator
• Ensure you meet all third-party domain connection requirements

Step 1: Initialize Connection in Squarespace

1. Go to Domains panel
2. Click "Use a domain I own"
3. Enter your domain name
4. Click "Connect domain"
5. Select "Other" from dropdown
6. Click "Continue"
7. Keep the DNS records panel open for reference

Step 2: Access HostGator DNS Settings

1. Log into HostGator account
2. Click "Hosting" in sidebar
3. Find your domain and click "cPanel"
4. Under Tools, locate "Zone Editor"
5. Click "Manage" for your domain
6. Select "Add Record"

Step 3: Add First CNAME Record

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

Step 4: Add Second CNAME Record

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

Step 5: Add Four A Records Create these exact records:

1. Host: @ | Type: A | Value: 198.185.159.144
2. Host: @ | Type: A | Value: 198.185.159.145
3. Host: @ | Type: A | Value: 198.49.23.144
4. Host: @ | Type: A | Value: 198.49.23.145

Important Notes:

• Allow 24-72 hours for connection completion
• Don't delete existing mail/email records
• Monitor connection progress in Squarespace DNS Settings
• Use DNS checker tool if verification fails
• Contact HostGator support for account-specific issues

Troubleshooting:

• If domain shows "Can't verify domain ownership," check DNS records
• Verify all CNAME and A records match exactly
• Wait full 72 hours before assuming connection issues
• Use DNS checker tool in Squarespace for verification

The domain will show as "Connected" in your Domains panel once properly linked.

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