Purchasing a domain from a third party and connecting it to your Wix website can seem daunting, but with a few clear steps, you can have everything running smoothly in no time.
This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your website is seamlessly integrated with your custom domain.
Step 1: Access Your Domain’s DNS Settings
Firstly, you’ll need to log in to your account with the domain registrar (the service where you purchased your domain). Once logged in, locate the DNS (Domain Name System) settings. This is where you can manage how your domain connects to various services, including your Wix website.
Step 2: Obtain Wix’s DNS Records
Next, head over to your Wix account. Navigate to the Domains section under your account settings. Here, Wix will provide you with the DNS records you need to enter into your domain registrar’s settings.
These records typically include:
CNAME Record: Points your domain to Wix’s servers.
A Record: Directs your domain to the correct IP address provided by Wix.
Step 3: Update Your Domain’s DNS Settings
In your domain registrar’s DNS settings, you’ll need to update the existing DNS records or add new ones provided by Wix.
For the CNAME Record:
Locate the CNAME record in your DNS settings.
Enter the information provided by Wix. This often involves pointing the ‘www’ part of your domain to Wix’s address (e.g., www123.wixdns.net).
For the A Record:
Find the A record section.
Replace the existing A record with the IP address given by Wix.
Step 4: Verify Your Connection on Wix
After updating your DNS settings, return to Wix to verify the connection. This step ensures that everything is set up correctly and that your domain is properly pointed to your Wix site.
Go back to the Domains section in your Wix account.
Click on Verify Connection or similar prompt.
Wait for Wix to confirm that your domain is connected.
Step 5: Allow for Propagation
DNS changes can take some time to propagate across the internet. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to 48 hours. During this time, your website might not be immediately accessible via your custom domain, so patience is key.
Step 6: Configure SSL
Once your domain is connected, make sure to enable SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) for your site. SSL encrypts data between your website and its visitors, enhancing security. Wix offers free SSL certificates, which you can enable in the Domains section of your Wix account.
Troubleshooting Tips
Double-check DNS entries: Ensure there are no typos in the DNS records.
Clear your browser cache: Sometimes, old DNS data can be stored in your browser cache.
Contact your domain registrar’s support: If you’re having trouble, your registrar’s support team can often assist with DNS settings.
Conclusion
Connecting a third-party domain to your Wix website involves a few technical steps, but by following this guide, you should be able to achieve a seamless connection. Remember, the key steps include accessing your domain’s DNS settings, entering the DNS records provided by Wix, verifying the connection, and allowing time for propagation.
If you find the process challenging or need professional assistance, get in touch with us at ElevatePixel. Our team of experts is here to help you connect your domain and ensure your website runs smoothly.