Nameserver connections and DNS connections direct visitors to your website, but they work differently. Here's what you need to know about each method.

Choosing the Right Connection Method

Use nameserver connection if you have a domain from GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Network Solutions, unless your domain:

• Has custom DNS records
• Uses multiple subdomains
• Has DNSSEC enabled
• Has a complex setup (glue records or domain forwarding)
• Requires specific nameservers for services like Cloudflare or AWS

Use DNS connection if:

• Your domain is hosted by other providers
• Any of the above limitations apply
• The nameserver connection option isn't available in your domains panel

Key Differences

Nameserver Connection:

• DNS records are stored with Squarespace
• Guided setup process
• Requires adding two nameserver records
• DNS records can be edited directly in Squarespace

DNS Connection:

• DNS settings remain with your domain provider
• Manual setup process
• Requires adding two CNAME records and four A records
• DNS records must be edited through your domain provider

Disabling Nameserver Connection

If you need to maintain custom DNS records for email or other services:

1. Open the Domains panel
2. Click "Use a domain I own"
3. Enter your domain name
4. Click "Connect domain"
5. Select "No, use DNS records"
6. Choose your domain provider
7. Log in to your provider's account
8. Complete the connection process

You can check your current connection method in the Domains panel, which displays whether you're using DNS or nameserver connection.

Note: For domains with custom features like email addresses or ad blockers, DNS connection is recommended to prevent service interruptions.

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