Can I Use a Google Domain With Squarespace?

Yes, you can use a Google Domain with Squarespace. Below, I will guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand each step clearly and can handle any potential issues:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Log In to Your Google Domains Account:

2. Visit Google Domains and sign in with the Google account associated with your domain.

3. Get Your Squarespace DNS Settings:

4. Log in to your Squarespace account and open the website you want to connect the domain to.
5. Navigate to the “Settings” tab in the Home menu.
6. Select “Domains” and then click on the “Use a domain I own” button.
7. Enter your Google Domain and click "Continue."
8. Choose "Connect Domain" and then "Domain Provider."

9. Select Google Domains from the list of providers and click "Connect Domain."

10. Configure DNS Settings:

11. If Squarespace provides you with a set of DNS records (such as CNAME, A, and MX records), you will need to enter these into Google Domains. Normally, Squarespace will give you a summary of DNS settings that need to be configured.

12. Add DNS Records in Google Domains:

13. Go back to your Google Domains page.
14. Select the domain you wish to connect to Squarespace.
15. Navigate to the DNS page from the sidebar.

16. In the "Custom resource records" section, you'll need to add the DNS records provided by Squarespace.

    • A Records: There could be multiple A records you'll need to create to point to Squarespace's IP addresses.
    • CNAME Records: Typically for www and other subdomains to point to Squarespace’s designated target.
    • MX Records/Other Records: Depending on any additional functionality you might be using, such as email.

17. Verify Your Domain:

18. After adding the necessary records, return to your Squarespace account.
19. Click the “Refresh” button on the domain connection screen to verify that the new settings have propagated.

20. This might take anywhere from a few minutes to up to 48 hours due to DNS propagation time.

21. Finalize the Connection:

22. Once verified, your Google Domain will be connected to your Squarespace site.
23. Ensure that you make the domain your primary domain within Squarespace settings if you want it to be the main address.

Important Considerations:

• Propagation Time: As mentioned, DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate fully, though it often happens much sooner.
• Accuracy of DNS Records: Make sure that you accurately enter the DNS records as any mistake can result in the domain not being correctly pointed to Squarespace.
• Technical Support: Both Google Domains and Squarespace offer customer support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you encounter issues.
• Email Services: If you have email services associated with your Google Domain, make sure that the MX records are entered correctly to ensure continued email functionality.
• Extra Services: Ensure that any other services tied to your domain are accounted for and that their DNS records are not inadvertently altered.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully connect your Google Domain to your Squarespace site with minimal hassle. This integration allows you to leverage the strengths of both platforms to maintain a professional and effective online presence.