How to Point a Squarespace Domain to External Sites: Complete Guide

How to Point a Squarespace Domain to External Sites: Complete Guide

By Michael Turner

December 31, 2024 at 09:45 AM

A domain can be configured to point to a non-Squarespace site while keeping your original URL visible in the browser. Here's how to set it up:

Pointing to a Non-Squarespace Site

  1. Add a CNAME Record:
  • Open Domains Dashboard > Select domain > DNS Settings
  • Delete Squarespace Default Settings
  • Add Custom Record > Select CNAME
  • Host: www
  • Data: Enter provider's URL
  • Click Save

Laptop being held by a hand

Laptop being held by a hand

  1. Add an A Record:
  • Add Custom Record > Select A
  • Host: @
  • Data: Enter provider's IP address
  • Click Save

Dropdown menu with @ symbol

Dropdown menu with @ symbol

Pointing a Subdomain

  1. Access root domain's DNS Settings
  2. Add Custom Record:
  • Select CNAME (for URL) or A (for IP)
  • Host: Enter subdomain (e.g., "blog")
  • Data: Enter provider's URL or IP
  • Click Save

Blog article list

Blog article list

Blog settings on Squarespace

Blog settings on Squarespace

Special Cases:

For Big Cartel, ClickFunnels, SiteGround, SmugMug, Systeme.io, or Zoho:

  1. Add CNAME record (www to provider's URL)
  2. Add domain forwarding rule:
  • Forward From: @
  • Forward To: www.yourdomain.com
  • Configure SSL and path forwarding as needed

Common Issues:

  • DNS changes take 24-72 hours to propagate
  • Ensure DNSSEC and nameservers are properly configured
  • Verify character limits in registration fields
  • Remove conflicting DNS records

Important Notes:

  • Cannot point to specific pages
  • Subdomains require root domain setup first
  • Use incognito window to verify changes

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