To connect a third-party domain to your Squarespace website, follow these essential steps:

Before You Begin

• Ensure you have full DNS access through your domain provider
• Your domain can't contain "squarespace" or "sqsp"
• Domain must be active and registered with your provider
• Multiple domains can be connected to one website
• Email services linked to your domain will continue working

Step-by-Step Connection Process

1. Initial Setup in Squarespace:

• Go to Domains menu
• Click "Use External Domain"
• Enter your domain name
• Click "Connect Domain"
• Select your provider from the dropdown
• Click "Continue"

2. Access DNS Settings:

• Keep the DNS Settings menu open for reference
• Note all required records for configuration

3. Configure Provider DNS Settings:

• Log into your domain provider account
• Locate DNS management settings
• You may need to remove existing DNS entries

4. Add Required DNS Records:

First CNAME Record:

• Host: [unique code from Squarespace]
• Points to: verify.squarespace.com

Second CNAME Record:

• Host: www
• Points to: ext-cust.squarespace.com

A Records (add all four):

• Host: @ (or leave blank)
• Point to Squarespace IP addresses provided

5. Wait for Connection:

• Allow 24-72 hours for full propagation
• Monitor connection status in Domain Overview
• Check SSL certificate generation
• Verify DNS settings are correct

Troubleshooting:

• Use DNS Record Checker Tool if errors persist
• Contact your domain provider for DNS setting assistance
• Check Squarespace's troubleshooting guide if needed

Note: If your domain provider doesn't support CNAME records, use A records instead:

• Host: www
• Points to: 198.185.159.144

For specific providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Network Solutions, use their dedicated connection guides for optimal setup.

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