Transfer or Link Your Domain: Choose the Best Option for Your Website

Transfer or Link Your Domain: Choose the Best Option for Your Website

By Michael Chen

January 8, 2025 at 02:02 PM

Domain transfers seamlessly connect an externally registered domain to your Squarespace site, while domain linking points the domain to Squarespace while keeping it with your current registrar. Here's what you need to know about each option:

Transferring Your Domain (Recommended)

Domain transfer gives Squarespace complete control over domain management, including:

  • Centralized DNS and billing management
  • Free SSL certificates
  • Free Whois privacy protection
  • One year free domain service with annual plans

Transfer Requirements:

  • Domain TLD must be supported by Squarespace
  • No premium registered domains
  • Domain must be at least 60 days old
  • Registration must be less than 9 years old

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Linking Your Domain

Domain linking (or mapping) keeps your domain with the current registrar while pointing it to Squarespace:

  • Original registrar maintains domain hosting
  • DNS settings managed through current provider
  • Requires access to modify DNS records
  • Maintains existing domain setup

Key Considerations:

  • Transfer is recommended when possible for simplified management
  • Linking works well for unsupported TLDs or complex setups
  • Both options provide full Squarespace functionality
  • Linked domains can be transferred later if requirements are met

Note for Google Domains Users: If you previously used Google Domains, your domain has automatically transferred to Squarespace. No additional action is required, and you can manage all settings through your Squarespace account.

Choose transfer when possible for streamlined management, or link your domain if transfer requirements aren't met. Both methods will keep your site fully functional while meeting different needs.

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