How do I connect a custom domain to Squarespace?

Connecting a custom domain to Squarespace is straightforward. You have two options: transfer your domain to Squarespace so they manage everything, or keep your domain at your current registrar and point it to Squarespace using DNS records. Transferring is simpler long-term because Squarespace handles renewals and DNS automatically. Pointing via DNS gives you more flexibility but requires you to manage records yourself.

To point your domain using DNS records, log into your domain registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, etc.) and add four A records pointing to Squarespace's IP addresses: 198.185.159.144, 198.185.159.145, 198.49.23.144, and 198.49.23.145. Then add a CNAME record for www pointing to ext-cust.squarespace.com. In your Squarespace settings, go to Domains, click Use a Domain I Own, and enter your domain name. DNS propagation typically takes 24 to 48 hours.

Common issues include forgetting to remove old A records that conflict with the new ones, not waiting long enough for DNS propagation, and missing the www CNAME record. Squarespace provides a domain verification tool in your settings that shows exactly which records are configured correctly and which need attention. If your domain was previously connected to another website, make sure to remove all old hosting records before adding the Squarespace ones.