Follow these step-by-step instructions to connect your HostGator domain to Squarespace:

Prerequisites:

• You must have a HostGator Shared Hosting plan (Hatchling, Baby, or Business)
• The domain must remain registered with HostGator
• Ensure you meet Squarespace's third-party domain requirements

Step 1: Start Connection in Squarespace

1. Open Domains menu
2. Click "Use External Domain"
3. Enter your domain name
4. Click "Connect Domain"
5. Select "Other" from dropdown
6. Click "Connect Domain" again
7. Click "Next" in the displayed message
8. Keep the DNS settings menu open for reference

Step 2: Access HostGator DNS Settings

1. Log in to HostGator account portal
2. Click "Hosting" in left sidebar
3. Find your domain and click "cPanel"
4. Scroll to "Tools" section
5. Click "Zone Editor"
6. Select "Manage" under Actions
7. Click "Add Record" under Zone Records

Step 3: Add Verification CNAME

• Host: [unique code from Squarespace]
• Type: CNAME
• Data: verify.squarespace.com

Step 4: Add WWW CNAME

• Host: www
• Type: CNAME
• Data: ext-cust.squarespace.com

Step 5: Add A Records Create four A records with these values:

• Host: @ (your root domain)
• Type: A
• Data (add one record for each):
  • 198.185.159.144
  • 198.185.159.145
  • 198.49.23.144
  • 198.49.23.145

Important Notes:

• Wait 24-72 hours for the connection to complete
• Monitor progress in Squarespace DNS settings
• Don't delete mail/email entries
• Use the DNS Records Checker tool if verification fails
• Contact HostGator support for account-specific issues

The domain is properly connected when you see a "Connected" label in the Squarespace Domains menu.

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