How to Connect Your DreamHost Domain to Squarespace: DNS Setup Guide

How to Connect Your DreamHost Domain to Squarespace: DNS Setup Guide

By Michael Chen

March 14, 2025 at 07:41 AM

Connect your DreamHost domain to Squarespace in 6 simple steps. Follow along to properly set up DNS records and establish the connection.

Step 1: Initialize Connection in Squarespace

  1. Go to Domains panel
  2. Click "Use a Custom Domain"
  3. Enter your domain name
  4. Click "Connect Domain"
  5. Select DreamHost from dropdown
  6. Click "Connect Domain" again and "Continue"
  7. Keep the DNS records panel open for reference

Step 2: Access DreamHost Settings

  1. Log in to DreamHost
  2. Navigate to Domains > Manage Domains
  3. Change to DNS Only hosting if not already set
  4. Ensure "Unsecured HTTPS" is showing
  5. If "Secured HTTPS" shows, remove the certificate
  6. Click "Remove" under Web Hosting

Step 3: Add First CNAME Record

Create a CNAME record with:

  • Host: [unique code from Squarespace]
  • Type: CNAME
  • Points to: verify.squarespace.com

Step 4: Add Second CNAME Record

Create another CNAME record with:

  • Host: www
  • Type: CNAME
  • Points to: ext-cust.squarespace.com

Step 5: Add Four A Records

Create four A records with these values:

  • Host: @ (leave blank)
  • Type: A
  • Points to (one for each record):
    • 198.185.159.144
    • 198.185.159.145
    • 198.49.23.144
    • 198.49.23.145

Important: Don't delete existing Mail or Email host records, as they manage your email service.

Step 6: Complete Connection

  • Wait 24-72 hours for full propagation
  • Monitor connection progress in Squarespace's DNS settings
  • Check for green labels indicating successful connection
  • Domain will show "Connected" when properly linked

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Use DNS Records Checker if domain shows "Domain ownership cannot be verified"
  • Wait full 72 hours before troubleshooting
  • Contact DreamHost support if issues persist

Note: DNS changes can take up to 72 hours to fully propagate. During this time, you may see error messages when visiting your domain - this is normal.

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