What is a domain & why do I need one?

A domain is like an address for a website on the internet. Just as your home has a unique address that helps people find it, a domain name (such as example.com) helps people find a specific website. It's made up of a name and a suffix (like .com, .org, or .net). When you type a domain into your browser, it directs you to the website associated with that address, making it easier to navigate the internet without needing to remember complex numerical codes.

How do I purchase a domain?

There are lots of different websites where you can purchase a domain registration but we recommend picking one that has a modern user friendly interface like Godaddy. A domain can only be registered once

1. Visit the GoDaddy Website: In the search bar on the homepage, type the domain name you want to purchase and click on the "Search" button.
2. Check Availability: GoDaddy will show you if the domain is available. If it is, you will see a green checkmark next to it. If it’s not, GoDaddy will suggest alternative names or extensions.
3. Select Your Domain: If your desired domain is available, click on the "Add to Cart" button next to it.
4. Choose Additional Options (Optional): GoDaddy will offer additional options such as domain privacy protection, email, and hosting services. We recommend skipping all of these. GoDaddy already protects your personal details when you purchase a domain so no additional privacy is needed. Email etc can always be set up at a later date (if you've purchased the Business Plan through Squarespace and paid annually you will get a free year of professional google email through Squarespace).
5. Proceed to Cart: After selecting your domain and any additional options, click on the "Continue to Cart" or "Proceed to Checkout" button.
6. Review Your Cart: Review your cart to ensure everything is correct. You can adjust the number of years for which you want to register the domain, add or remove items, and apply any promo codes. Ensure that no extra services have been added to the checkout other than the domain(s) you are purchasing.
7. Sign In or Create an Account: If you already have a GoDaddy account, sign in. If not, you will need to create an account by providing your email address, creating a password, and entering your billing information.
8. Enter Payment Information: Fill in your payment details, such as credit card information or other available payment methods.
9. Complete Purchase: Review your order one last time, and then click on the "Complete Purchase" or "Place Your Order" button.
10. Confirmation: After the purchase is complete, you will receive a confirmation email from GoDaddy with details of your domain registration. Important note: some domain purchases require you to verify your contact details by clicking a link that is emailed to you. If you receive an email like that, it's vital that you click the link or your domain could be suspended after a period of time.

Domain endings explained

Domain endings are the last part of a domain name and indicate the type or location of the website. Here’s an explanation of the three most common:

.co.uk - Recommended for UK based businesses. Google aims to rank .co.uk domains higher than .com domains in the UK. Primarily used for websites based in the United Kingdom or for businesses targeting a UK audience. If you are providing a UK based service or product, we recommend a .co.uk as it tells Google which location your website should be ranking in.

.com - The most widely used domain ending. We recommend .com for businesses with customers in the US or globally. Any type of business, blog, shop etc can use .com.

.org - Traditionally used by non-profit organizations, charities, and other non-commercial entities, but can be used by anyone. We recommend avoiding this domain unless you are a non-profit to avoid misunderstanding.

How to connect a domain to Squarespace

Step 1: Log in to Your Squarespace Account

1. Navigate to Squarespace and log in to your account.
2. Once logged in, go to the Home Menu.

Step 2: Open the Domains Settings

1. In the Home Menu, click on the "Settings" option.
2. In the Settings menu, select "Domains."

Step 3: Choose to Connect a Third-Party Domain or Use a Squarespace Domain

If you have a domain purchased through Squarespace:

1. Under the Domains section, you’ll see the domain you’ve purchased. Click on it to configure.

If you have a domain purchased from another provider:

1. Click on the “Use a Domain I Own” button.
2. Enter your domain name in the provided field and click "Continue."

Step 4: Connect a Third-Party Domain

1. After entering your domain name, you’ll be given the option to connect it using a domain provider.
2. Select your domain provider from the list (such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, etc.). If your provider is not listed, select "Other."

Step 5: Update DNS Settings

If your domain provider is listed:

1. Squarespace will attempt to connect automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to log in to your domain provider and authorize Squarespace to manage your DNS settings.
2. Once authorized, Squarespace will update your DNS settings automatically. This may take a few minutes.

If your domain provider is not listed:

1. You’ll need to update your DNS settings manually. Squarespace will provide you with the necessary DNS records.
2. Log in to your domain provider’s account and find the DNS settings section.
3. Add the provided DNS records (usually a CNAME and A records) to your domain’s DNS settings. This process may vary slightly depending on your domain provider.

Step 6: Verify Connection

1. After updating the DNS settings, return to Squarespace.
2. Click the "Refresh" button to check the connection status. It may take up to 72 hours for the changes to propagate.

Step 7: Set the Domain as Primary (Optional)

1. Once your domain is connected, you can set it as the primary domain.
2. In the Domains section, find your connected domain and click the “Make Primary” button.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Propagation Time: DNS changes can take up to 72 hours to propagate. If your site isn’t visible immediately, wait and check again later.
• Check DNS Settings: Ensure all DNS records are correctly entered if the connection fails.
• Contact Support: If you encounter issues, contact Squarespace support or your domain provider for assistance.