How to Connect IONOS Domain to Squarespace: Manual DNS Setup Guide

How to Connect IONOS Domain to Squarespace: Manual DNS Setup Guide

By Michael Turner

March 15, 2025 at 11:37 PM

Connect your IONOS domain to Squarespace manually with these steps:

Step 1: Start Connection in Squarespace

  1. Go to [Domains] panel
  2. Click [Use my domain]
  3. Enter your domain name
  4. Click [Connect domain]
  5. Select [Other]
  6. Click [Continue]
  7. Keep the DNS records panel open for reference

Step 2: Access IONOS Account

  1. Log in to your IONOS account
  2. Find your domain in the list
  3. Click [Actions] → [DNS]

Step 3: Delete Existing Records

  1. Set filter to [Show All Records]
  2. Remove all AAAA and A records
  3. Confirm deletion

Step 4: Add First CNAME Record

  1. Click [Add record] → [CNAME]
  2. Host Name: (paste unique code from Squarespace)
  3. Points to: verify.squarespace.com
  4. TTL: 1 hour
  5. Save changes

Step 5: Add Second CNAME Record

  1. Click [Add Record] → [CNAME]
  2. Host Name: www
  3. Points to: ext-cust.squarespace.com
  4. TTL: 1 hour
  5. Save changes

Note: If you receive an error about duplicate CNAME records, delete any existing www records first.

Step 6: Add A Records Add four A records with these settings:

  1. Host Name: @ (for all records)
  2. Points to (add one record for each):
    • 198.185.159.144
    • 198.185.159.145
    • 198.49.23.144
    • 198.49.23.145
  3. TTL: 1 hour

Important: Don't delete mail records as they manage your email service.

Step 7: Wait for Connection

  • Allow 24-72 hours for full propagation
  • Check connection status in Squarespace [DNS Settings]
  • Green labels will appear when properly connected
  • Temporary errors are normal during propagation

Troubleshooting:

  • Use DNS checker tool if you see "Cannot verify domain ownership"
  • Contact IONOS support for account-specific issues
  • Wait full 72 hours before attempting fixes

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