Can I Use a Squarespace Domain on GoDaddy?

Using a Squarespace domain with GoDaddy involves transferring your domain hosting from Squarespace to GoDaddy. This process can be broken down into several steps, which we'll outline here. It's important to understand that transferring a domain can take several days and might involve some downtime for your website, so plan accordingly.

Steps to Transfer a Squarespace Domain to GoDaddy

1. Prepare Your Domain for Transfer:
2. Unlock Your Domain: Squarespace domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. You'll need to unlock your domain by logging into your Squarespace account, navigating to the Domains panel, selecting the domain you wish to transfer, and turning off the "Lock domain" setting.

3. Get the Authorization Code: An authorization code (also known as an EPP code) is required to transfer your domain. In the same section where you unlocked your domain, there should be an option to "Send transfer authentication code" to your email address.

4. Initiate the Transfer with GoDaddy:

5. Create or Log into Your GoDaddy Account: If you don't already have an account with GoDaddy, you'll need to create one.
6. Begin the Transfer Process: Navigate to the Domain Transfer section on the GoDaddy website and enter the domain name you wish to transfer. GoDaddy will prompt you to enter the authorization code you received from Squarespace.

7. Verify Your Identity: GoDaddy might require you to verify your identity through an email confirmation or a phone call.

8. Approve the Transfer:

9. Confirm the Transfer: Once you initiate the transfer, you'll get an email from both Squarespace and GoDaddy to confirm that you want to transfer your domain. Follow the instructions in these emails to approve the transfer.

10. Wait for the Transfer to Complete: The transfer process typically takes 5-7 days. During this period, your website may experience some downtime. Squarespace will notify you via email once the transfer is complete.

11. Update DNS Records:

12. Configure Your DNS Settings on GoDaddy: Once your domain transfer is complete, you'll need to set up DNS records on GoDaddy to ensure your domain points to the correct website or other services (such as email). Log in to your GoDaddy account, go to the "My Products" section, find your domain, and select "Manage DNS."
13. Set Up A, CNAME, MX, and Other Records: Add or update relevant DNS records according to the instructions provided by your new hosting provider or as required for your services. Make sure these settings are correct to minimize downtime.

Considerations and Limitations

• Transfer Fees: Both Squarespace and GoDaddy may have fees associated with domain transfers. Make sure to review any associated costs before proceeding.
• DNS Changes: DNS settings can take up to 48 hours to propagate across the internet, so plan for potential downtime.
• Domain Expiration: Ensure your domain is not close to its expiration date before initiating a transfer. It's suggested to start the transfer process at least a month before your domain is set to expire to avoid any complications.
• Privacy Protection: If you have domain privacy protection enabled, this will typically also be transferred. However, you may need to re-enable privacy settings on GoDaddy after the transfer is complete.

By carefully following these steps and considering the associated limitations, you can successfully use a Squarespace domain on GoDaddy.