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How to Connect Your Domain Name to Shopify 2024 (Easy Step-By-Step)

Education

Introduction

If you've just launched your online store and want to create a professional branded presence, connecting your domain name to your Shopify store is an essential step. This guide will walk you through the entire process for 2024, whether you've purchased a domain from Shopify or from third-party providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a seamless connection, giving your business a polished and credible look.

Why Set Up a Custom Domain?

A custom domain not only enhances accessibility for customers but also strengthens your brand's credibility. Having a professional-looking web address is crucial for establishing trust with potential customers as they encounter your store for the first time.

Step 1: Purchasing Your Domain Name

If you haven't yet purchased a domain, you have the option to buy one directly through Shopify. This route is particularly convenient for beginners since Shopify takes care of all the technical aspects like DNS settings. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Log into your Shopify admin dashboard.
  2. Navigate to Settings at the bottom left corner.
  3. Click on Domains in the settings menu.
  4. Select the option to buy a new domain.
  5. Enter your desired domain name and click Next.
  6. Choose an available domain from the list provided and complete your purchase.

Once you have completed the purchase, your new domain will be associated with your Shopify store instantly, including the addition of SSL certificates to secure your website and protect customer data.

Step 2: Connecting a Third-Party Domain

If you already own a domain from a third party like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains, here’s how to connect it to Shopify:

  1. Log into your Shopify dashboard and go to Settings.
  2. Click on Domains.
  3. Select Connect existing domain and enter your previously purchased domain.
  4. Click Next.

Configuring DNS Settings

You will need to update two key DNS records:

  • A Record: This points your domain to an IP address. Update this A record with Shopify’s IP address, which is 23.227.38.65.
  • CNAME Record: This ensures that your domain subdomains like www.yourdomain.com are directed to Shopify. Set your CNAME record to shops.myshopify.com.

To perform these updates:

  1. Log into your domain registrar account.
  2. Locate the DNS settings or domain management area.
  3. Update the specified records as mentioned above.
  4. Save your changes.

Keep in mind that DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours to take effect.

Step 3: Verifying Your Domain Connection

After configuring your DNS settings, verify that your domain is correctly connected to Shopify:

  1. Return to the Shopify dashboard.
  2. In the domains section, click the Verify Connection button.

If everything is configured correctly, you will receive a successful connection message. If verification fails, check your DNS records again and try verifying after a few hours.

Step 4: Set Your Primary Domain

Once your domain is successfully connected:

  1. In the Domains section, find your newly connected domain.
  2. Click Set as Primary Domain.

This sets your custom domain as the main web address that customers will see in their browser’s address bar.

Step 5: Enabling SSL Certificates

To ensure secure transactions on your website, enable SSL certificates:

  1. In the domains section, locate your newly connected domain.
  2. Click Enable SSL.

This process may take a few minutes or hours, but rest assured that your site will become secure once the SSL certificates are active.

Conclusion

You are now set up with your new domain or your third-party connected domain through Shopify. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below. Don’t forget to like this article and subscribe for more valuable content in the future!

Keywords

  • Shopify
  • Domain Name
  • Custom Domain
  • DNS Settings
  • SSL Certificates
  • GoDaddy
  • Namecheap
  • Google Domains
  • E-commerce

FAQ

1. What is a custom domain and why do I need one?
A custom domain is a unique web address for your online store. It enhances accessibility and credibility, helping to build trust with customers.

2. How do I purchase a domain through Shopify?
You can buy a domain directly from Shopify through the settings section under domains. Just follow the prompts to enter your desired domain name.

3. What if I bought a domain from a third-party provider?
You can connect it by logging into your Shopify dashboard, going to the domains section, and following the prompts to connect your existing domain and update the necessary DNS records.

4. How long does it take for DNS changes to propagate?
DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes up to 48 hours to propagate across the internet.

5. Do I need to enable SSL for my custom domain?
Yes, enabling SSL is crucial for securing data transferred between your store and customers, and it is also a ranking factor for SEO. Shopify offers free SSL certificates for all connected domains.