Troubleshooting Guide: Common DNS Record Issues and Solutions

Troubleshooting Guide: Common DNS Record Issues and Solutions

By Michael Turner

March 18, 2025 at 10:55 PM

If you're experiencing issues with your DNS records, this guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve common problems.

Replace Placeholder Values When adding custom records, replace the gray placeholder values in Host and Data fields. The Priority field is optional. Failing to replace these placeholders will prevent the record from saving.

Host Field Format Guidelines

  • For custom records with subdomains (like mail.yourdomain.com), only enter the subdomain part (mail)
  • For root domain records (yourdomain.com), enter @ in the Host field
  • Avoid duplicate Host fields across different record types to prevent "This host is already in use" errors

Common Error Messages and Solutions

Invalid IP Address or Host Name:

  • Ensure Data field format is correct
  • Remove any trailing periods
  • Verify IP address format

Record Conflicts:

  1. Open Domains dashboard
  2. Select domain name
  3. Navigate to DNS Settings
  4. Review Custom Records
  5. Remove conflicting records
  6. Save changes
  7. Add new record
  8. Allow 24-72 hours for propagation

Priority Field Limitations Priority field modification is only available for MX and SRV records. It remains locked for other record types.

AAAA Records Use complete IPv6 addresses instead of abbreviated versions:

  • Correct: 2620:12a:8000:0:0:0:0:3
  • Incorrect: 2620:12a:8000::3

Long TXT/DMARC Records For records exceeding 255 characters:

  1. Split into smaller strings
  2. Add each string as separate records
  3. Use online DNS record splitting tools for automation

Additional Assistance For specific DNS configuration help, consult your service provider or the Domains section of the Squarespace Forum. Support can guide you on where to add records but cannot provide technical DNS advice.

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