DNS Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix Common DNS Record Issues

DNS Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix Common DNS Record Issues

By Michael Turner

March 18, 2025 at 10:55 PM

A DNS record may fail to save or display error messages for various reasons. Here's how to troubleshoot common DNS record issues:

Saving DNS Records

When adding custom records, always:

  • Replace the gray placeholder values in Host and Data fields with actual values
  • Note that Priority field is optional except for MX and SRV records
  • Remember your domain name is automatically added after Host values

Common Host Field Issues:

  • For mail.yourdomain.com, only enter "mail" in the Host field
  • Use @ in the Host field when provider requests bare domain (yourdomain.com)
  • Avoid duplicate Host values across different record types

Error Messages and Solutions

Invalid IP Address or Host Name:

  • Check Data field format
  • Remove trailing periods
  • Verify information is entered correctly

Conflicting Records:

  1. Review existing DNS settings
  2. Delete conflicting records
  3. Add new custom records
  4. Allow 24-72 hours for nameserver updates

AAAA Records:

  • Use fully expanded IPv6 addresses
  • Example:
    • Incorrect: 2620:12a:8000:3
    • Correct: 2620:12a:8000:0:0:0:0:3

"Enter Valid Alias Data" Error:

  • Ensure record is under 255 characters
  • Remove extra characters (especially trailing periods)
  • Check for typos

Long TXT/DMARC Records:

  • Split records longer than 255 characters into smaller strings
  • Add each string separately as individual records
  • Use online DNS record splitting tools if needed

Priority Field:

  • Only editable for MX and SRV records
  • Will appear but remain locked for other record types

Support Limitations:

  • Support can help locate DNS settings
  • Technical DNS advice should come from service providers
  • Use Domains section of Squarespace Forum for peer assistance

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