How to Set Up a Custom Email Domain Using Squarespace on Mastermind.com
Overview:
Setting up a custom email domain using a domain registered with Squarespace offers benefits like scalable email sending and enhanced deliverability. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you set up your custom email domain using Squarespace.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Log in to Your Squarespace Account
- Open your preferred browser and visit Squarespace.
- Click Login in the upper-right corner and enter your account credentials.
- Once logged in, you’ll be directed to your dashboard where you can manage your domains.
Step 2: Access DNS Management for Your Domain
- In your Squarespace dashboard, locate the domain you want to use for your custom email setup.
- Click on Manage next to the domain name to open its settings.
- Navigate to the DNS & Nameservers section where you’ll manage the necessary records.
Step 3: Add the Required DNS Records for Custom Email Configuration
- On the DNS management page, you’ll need to add both MX (Mail Exchange) and TXT records.
- MX Records: These specify the mail servers responsible for receiving emails.
- TXT Records: These are used for domain verification and can also include SPF, DKIM, and DMARC settings to secure and authenticate your emails.
- Click Add DNS Record, then select MX from the record type drop-down menu.
- Enter the mail server details provided by your email service provider (e.g., Google Workspace, Zoho Mail) and set the priority level.
- Repeat the process to add the TXT records needed for email validation and security.
Important: Ensure the information provided by your email hosting provider is entered exactly as instructed to avoid potential email delivery issues.
Step 4: Verify Domain Ownership and Email Configuration
- After updating the DNS records, return to your email hosting provider’s setup page and start the domain verification process.
- The verification process will confirm that your DNS records are correctly configured. This may take up to 48 hours for DNS propagation.
Step 5: Activate SSL Certificates and Optional Advanced Settings
- It’s essential to ensure that your domain is secured with an SSL certificate:
- In Squarespace, navigate to the SSL Settings section and check if your SSL certificate is active. If it’s pending, allow time for it to be fully issued and activated.
- (Optional) You may want to configure additional settings like email routing and forwarding:
- These options can be accessed through the DNS settings or your email hosting platform for greater control over your email flow.
Tip: Make sure the SSL certificate is fully activated before sending emails to ensure secure communication and prevent potential phishing issues.