Domain management with Squarespace offers two main options: transferring or connecting your third-party domain. Here's what you need to know to make the right choice.

Transfer vs. Connect: Key Differences

Transferring your domain moves complete management to Squarespace, while connecting (domain mapping) keeps your domain with its current provider while pointing it to Squarespace.

Domain Transfer Benefits:

• Single-platform management for domain and website
• Free SSL certificate
• Complimentary WHOIS privacy
• Possible free year of domain service with annual plans
• Direct DNS management through Squarespace

Transfer Requirements:

• Domain TLD must be on Squarespace's supported list
• Standard domains only (no premium domains)
• 60-day minimum registration with current provider
• Less than 9-year registration period

Domain Connection Option: Choose this if you can't transfer your domain. You'll keep your current provider while pointing the domain to Squarespace.

Connection Considerations:

• DNS management stays with current provider
• Requires management across two platforms
• Need full DNS setting access
• Limited Squarespace support for provider-specific issues

Recommendation: Transfer your domain if it meets the requirements. This provides the most streamlined management experience and full access to Squarespace's domain features.

Note for Google Domains Users: If your domain was with Google Domains, it's already transferred to Squarespace – no action needed.

Both options maintain your domain's functionality, but transferring offers more integrated management and additional features. If you start with a connection, you can still transfer later when requirements are met.

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