How to Change Your Squarespace Site's Built-In Domain
If you’ve ever started a Squarespace site, you know that by default, Squarespace assigns a built-in domain that often looks like a jumble of words—something like 'scarlet-wolverine-askem.squarespace.com'. These domains are unique but not exactly memorable or helpful, especially if you manage multiple sites. Today, I’m going to show you how to change this built-in domain to something a bit more recognizable and easier to remember.
Watch the video
Check out the YouTube video below. 👇🏼
Why Change Your Built-In Domain?
Changing your built-in domain can simplify your life in a few ways:
Easier Identification: With a custom domain like ‘my-demo-website.squarespace.com’, it’s immediately clear which site you’re dealing with, especially when you receive notifications from Squarespace.
Professional Look: Even if you’re not ready to purchase a custom domain yet, a well-chosen built-in domain can still give a professional touch to your project links.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Built-In Domain on Squarespace
Step 1: Access Your Settings
Head to your Squarespace dashboard and select the site you want to update. Once in, navigate to the 'Settings' menu.
Step 2: Find the Domains Section
In the settings menu, click on ‘Domains and Email,’ then select ‘Domains’. You’ll see your current built-in domain listed here.
Step 3: Edit Your Domain
Click on the domain, and you’ll find an option to edit it. Here, you can type over the existing built-in domain with something that makes more sense to you. For example, you might change it to ‘my-demo-website.squarespace.com’.
Step 4: Confirm Your Changes
After entering your new domain name, make sure to save and confirm the changes. Squarespace will ask you to verify that you really want to make the switch—just a simple step to ensure you don’t make any accidental changes.
Things to Keep in Mind
Temporary URL: Remember, the built-in domain is essentially a temporary URL until you’re ready to connect a custom domain that you own.
No SEO Impact: Changing your built-in domain won’t affect your SEO as these Squarespace URLs are primarily for development and preview purposes.
Simplicity is Key: Choose a domain that is easy to recall and relevant to the site’s purpose or content.
Wrapping Up
Changing the built-in domain on your Squarespace site is a quick tweak that can make a big difference in managing and identifying your projects. It’s all about making your life a little easier while you prepare to launch your site officially.
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Your designer
I'm Bryan, a Squarespace web designer and founder of Abound Web Design. I have worked with all types of businesses and organizations from preschools to publishing companies to chiropractic clinics and everything in between. If you want to discuss a potential project, you can email me at bryan@aboundwebdesign or get in touch with me here. Alternatively, you can book in a free 15-minute consultation call here.
