Setting a custom domain as primary is essential for brand consistency and effective website management. Follow these clear steps to set your primary domain:

Before Setting Primary Domain:

• Verify ownership if using a Squarespace domain
• Ensure third-party domains are properly connected (allow up to 72 hours)
• Remember only one domain can be primary

How to Set Primary Domain:

1. Open Domains panel
2. Click [...] next to desired domain
3. Select "Set as Primary Domain"
4. Confirm in pop-up message

Important Domain Rules:

• First custom domain automatically becomes primary
• All secondary domains redirect to primary domain (301 redirect)
• Only custom domains can be primary, not built-in .squarespace.com domains
• Primary domain appears on all site pages
• Cannot use different domains for specific pages

Search and SEO Impact:

• Only primary domain appears in search results
• Use Google Search Console to specify preferred domain
• Request re-indexing if built-in domain persists in search results

Key Things to Know:

• Built-in .squarespace.com domain remains visible when logged in
• Subdomains from third parties can be primary
• Analytics combine traffic from all valid domains
• No need to remove primary status before changing primary domain
• All custom domains automatically redirect to primary domain

Common Issues:

• Built-in domain visibility during login is normal (security feature)
• Adding new custom domains doesn't change primary status
• Squarespace subdomains cannot be set as primary
• Analytics don't separate traffic by domain source

Remember: Setting the right primary domain is crucial for establishing your online presence and maintaining consistent branding across your website.

Related Articles

Previous Articles