Squarespace announced today that it had bought Google’s domain name business for $180 Million. This acquisition will affect 10 million domain names. Under the terms of the agreement, Squarespace will honor all existing Google Domains customers’ renewal prices for at least 12 months. After which, they will encourage domain owners to build websites at Squarespace.
While Squarespace has been a long-time reseller for Google Domains, this acquisition seems to be odd because Google’s domain registrants tend to be more technical. Squarespace uses a proprietary website builder that can only be hosted on their servers, while many of Google’s core customers are developers and use custom code.
I don’t use Google for domain registration. I find that Google’s user interfaces tend to be a little clunky, and good luck getting a hold of tech support when you have an issue.
I have been using a local Pacific Northwest company called PorkBun.com for my registrations. They are more affordable than most registrars; we have used them for a few years. I have only had to use their support once, and they were easy to reach.
If you want to move your domains from Google (or any registrar like GoDaddy, Network Solutions, etc.) It is a multi-step process. Below is a list of instructions for moving your domain from Google.
- Prepare for the transfer:
– Ensure that your domain is eligible for transfer. Domain names must be at least 60 days old and not within 15 days of expiration or renewal.
– Make sure your domain is unlocked. By default, domains in Google Domains are unlocked, but double-check to be sure.
– Obtain the authorization code (also known as an EPP code or transfer code) from Google. You’ll need this code to initiate the transfer process with Porkbun.
- Create an account with Porkbun.com:
– If you don’t already have an account, go to the Porkbun.com website and sign up for a new account.
- Initiate the domain transfer at Porkbun.com:
– Log in to your Porkbun.com account.
– Go to the domain transfer page or domain management section.
– Enter your domain name and follow the prompts to start the transfer process.
– Provide the authorization code obtained from Google when prompted.
- Confirm the transfer request:
– Porkbun.com will send an email to the domain’s administrative contact (the email associated with the domain).
– Open the email and click on the provided link to confirm the transfer request.
– Follow any additional instructions provided by Porkbun.com.
- Approve the transfer at Google Domains:
– After initiating the transfer at Porkbun.com, you’ll receive an email from Google Domains (the current registrar) with instructions.
– Follow the instructions in the email to approve the transfer request.
– This may involve logging in to your Google Domains account and clicking on a link to approve the transfer.
- Wait for the transfer to complete:
– Once you’ve completed the steps above, the transfer process begins.
– The transfer may take a few days to complete, during which the domain will be inaccessible for changes.
– Both Porkbun.com and Google Domains will keep you updated via email regarding the transfer status.
- Verify the domain transfer:
– After the transfer is complete, verify that your domain appears in your Porkbun.com account.
– Ensure that all domain settings and configurations are correctly transferred.
It’s important to note that the process may vary slightly depending on the domain registrar and their specific procedures. If you encounter any difficulties or have questions during the transfer, it’s recommended to contact customer support at Porkbun.com for assistance.
