The Squarespace Developer Platform is an advanced tool that enables developers to create highly customized websites beyond standard customization options. This guide answers key questions about its functionality and usage.

Who Should Use the Developer Platform?

The Developer Platform is specifically designed for advanced developers with expertise in:

• HTML
• LESS CSS
• JSON-T
• GitHub

Most users won't need the Developer Platform, as Squarespace's built-in customization tools (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript) are sufficient for typical needs.

Key Capabilities

With Developer Mode enabled, you can:

• Create custom 7.0 website templates from scratch
• Modify existing 7.0 templates
• Access markup, stylesheets, scripts, and template assets

Limitations:

• Cannot create or edit 7.1 websites
• No access to CMS content
• Cannot add server-side custom code
• Cannot modify default scripts, styles, or editing tools
• No block or cover page customization

Impact of Enabling Developer Mode

When enabled:

• Demo content will be removed
• Template switching becomes unavailable
• No more template updates from Squarespace (platform updates continue)
• Live website remains unchanged until code updates are made

Disabling Developer Mode Effects

Disabling Developer Mode results in:

• Loss of all customizations
• Removal of custom code and CSS
• Return to default Squarespace settings
• Disappearance of custom layouts and features
• Reset of navigation structure
• Removal of custom blog post types
• Loss of sidebar, header, and footer customizations

Subscription Requirements

• Available with Website Business subscription or higher
• Trial periods have full access without expiration
• Downgrading to Personal subscription retains existing customizations but prevents further changes

Technical Considerations

• Two-factor authentication users need to create an app password
• Social media login users must create an app password or switch to email/password login

Support

Squarespace provides:

• Basic setup assistance
• Access to peer-to-peer developer forum
• Comprehensive developer documentation

Note: Custom code troubleshooting is not included in support services.

Before disabling Developer Mode, always backup your website files and code locally to preserve your work.

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