How To Change Domain Name In Squarespace ?

If you’re running a website on Squarespace, there may come a time when you need a fresh start with a new domain. Whether you’re rebranding, correcting a typo, or switching to a more memorable domain, knowing how to change domain name in Squarespace is essential. This guide will walk you through the process, explain the implications, and provide practical tips to ensure a smooth transition.

Understanding Squarespace Domains

Before making any changes, it’s important to understand the types of domains in Squarespace:

1. Domains Registered Through Squarespace
   • Squarespace allows you to buy and manage domains directly from your account.
   • These domains are fully integrated, so changing settings is straightforward.
2. Third-Party Domains
   • Domains purchased elsewhere (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains) can be connected to Squarespace.
   • Changing these domains involves updating DNS settings rather than moving them to Squarespace.
3. Primary Domain
   • Every Squarespace site has a primary domain that visitors see in the browser.
   • Changing your primary domain will update what shows publicly, but your old domain can still redirect visitors if configured correctly.

Step 1: Prepare Your New Domain

Before changing your domain in Squarespace, you need a new domain ready:

• Purchase a new domain from Squarespace or a third-party provider.
• Ensure the domain is available and matches your branding.
• Decide if you want to transfer it to Squarespace (optional, simplifies management).

Tip: Squarespace supports domain transfers from most popular registrars, but it can take several days to complete.

Step 2: Add the New Domain to Your Squarespace Site

Once your new domain is ready:

1. Log in to Squarespace.
2. Navigate to Settings → Domains.
3. Click Use a Domain I Own if it’s a third-party domain, or Get a Domain if purchasing through Squarespace.
4. Follow the prompts to connect or register the domain.

For third-party domains:

• You may need to update DNS records (CNAME, A record, MX records) at your domain registrar.
• Squarespace provides exact values for these records to ensure proper connection.

Step 3: Make the New Domain Your Primary Domain

After adding the domain:

1. Go to Settings → Domains in Squarespace.
2. Locate your newly added domain.
3. Click Set as Primary Domain.
4. Squarespace will automatically redirect the old domain to the new primary domain, preserving search traffic and bookmarks.

Important Notes:

• Only one primary domain is allowed per site.
• Squarespace automatically adds redirects (301) from your old domain to the new one, which is SEO-friendly.

Step 4: Verify Domain Settings and SSL

After switching domains, ensure your site is fully functional:

1. Check SSL certificate: Squarespace automatically provides SSL for secure HTTPS connections. Make sure your new domain shows the padlock in browsers.
2. Test all pages and links: Old URLs should redirect to the new domain properly.
3. Update external services: Any marketing tools, Google Analytics, or email services linked to your old domain should be updated to the new one.

Step 5: Consider SEO Implications

Changing your domain can impact your search engine rankings if not done correctly. Squarespace handles most technical SEO, but here are best practices:

• 301 Redirects: Squarespace automatically redirects old URLs to the new domain. Confirm these are working for all major pages.
• Update Google Search Console: Add your new domain and submit a sitemap.
• Update backlinks: Reach out to websites linking to your old domain and request updates where possible.
• Monitor analytics: Track traffic and rankings to ensure the transition does not cause drops.

Step 6: Update Your Email (Optional)

If your domain includes email (e.g., through Google Workspace or Squarespace Email Campaigns):

• Ensure your email DNS records are updated for the new domain.
• Notify your contacts of the new email address if applicable.
• Test sending and receiving emails to confirm everything works.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

1. DNS Propagation Delays
   • Changing or connecting a domain can take up to 48 hours for full propagation.
2. SSL Not Working
   • If the secure padlock doesn’t appear, check that your domain is fully connected and SSL is enabled in Squarespace.
3. Broken Links
   • Squarespace handles most redirects, but manually check internal links and images.
4. Third-Party Domain Conflicts
   • Ensure all required DNS records (A, CNAME) match Squarespace’s specifications.

Step 7: Best Practices for a Smooth Domain Change

• Backup your website before making changes.
• Notify users or customers in advance if the domain change affects email or login URLs.
• Keep the old domain active for a few months to maintain traffic.
• Update all branding, social media profiles, and marketing materials with the new domain.

Conclusion

Changing your domain name in Squarespace is straightforward if you follow the right steps: prepare your new domain, connect it, set it as primary, verify functionality, and manage SEO implications. By carefully planning the switch, you can maintain traffic, protect search rankings, and ensure a smooth transition for your visitors.