Connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify boosts your online store’s identity. It can seem tricky, but it’s straightforward with the right steps.
Setting up your domain with Shopify is crucial for branding. A custom domain makes your store look professional and trustworthy. Many new store owners feel overwhelmed by the technical steps. But fear not, this process is simpler than it appears.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to connect your Namecheap domain to Shopify easily. We will break down each step to ensure you understand. Whether you are tech-savvy or not, by the end of this blog, you’ll have your domain working perfectly with Shopify. So, let’s dive in and enhance your online presence with a custom domain.
Credit: help.shopify.com
Preparing Your Domain
Connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify is a crucial step. It ensures your online store has a professional look. Before you start, you need to prepare your domain. This involves logging into Namecheap and accessing your domain list.
Logging Into Namecheap
First, open your web browser. Go to the Namecheap website. You will see the login button at the top right corner. Click on it. Enter your username and password. After that, click on the “Sign In” button. This will take you to your Namecheap dashboard.
Accessing Domain List
Once you are in your dashboard, find the “Domain List” on the left-hand side. Click on it. This will show a list of all your domains. Look for the domain you want to connect to Shopify. Click on “Manage” next to that domain. You will now see the settings for your domain.
In the domain settings, you need to make a few changes. These changes will point your domain to Shopify. But first, you need to make sure you are in the right place. Look for the “Advanced DNS” tab. Click on it. This is where you will add the DNS records.
| Type | Host | Value |
|---|---|---|
| CNAME | www | shops.myshopify.com |
| A Record | @ | 23.227.38.65 |
In the “Advanced DNS” settings, you need to add the above records. This will connect your domain to Shopify. Follow the steps carefully. It may take a few minutes for the changes to take effect.
Once you have added the records, go back to your Shopify admin. Go to “Domains” under the “Online Store” section. Click on “Connect existing domain”. Enter your domain name. Click “Next” and follow the prompts. Shopify will verify the connection. If all is set, your domain will be connected to your Shopify store.
Configuring Dns Settings
Configuring DNS settings is a key step in connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify. By updating the DNS settings, you direct your domain to point to Shopify’s servers. This ensures that visitors see your Shopify store when they type your domain name into their browser. Follow these steps to configure your DNS settings.
Navigating To Dns Settings
First, log in to your Namecheap account. Once logged in, find and select “Domain List” from the left-hand sidebar. Locate the domain you want to connect to Shopify and click the “Manage” button next to it. You will now be on the domain management page.
Scroll down to the “Advanced DNS” tab and click on it. This will take you to the DNS settings page. Here, you can add and modify DNS records to point your domain to Shopify.
Adding A Record
On the DNS settings page, locate the section for “Host Records.” Click the “Add New Record” button. Select “A Record” from the dropdown menu.
In the “Host” field, enter “@” to indicate the root domain. In the “Value” field, enter Shopify’s IP address: 23.227.38.65. Set the “TTL” (Time To Live) to “Automatic” and click the green checkmark to save the record.
Adding Cname Record
Next, you need to add a CNAME record. Click the “Add New Record” button again. Select “CNAME Record” from the dropdown menu.
In the “Host” field, enter “www” to indicate the subdomain. In the “Value” field, enter shops.myshopify.com. Set the “TTL” to “Automatic” and click the green checkmark to save the record.
By completing these steps, you have successfully configured your DNS settings to connect your Namecheap domain to Shopify. Remember to allow some time for these changes to propagate, which can take up to 48 hours.
Connecting Domain To Shopify
Connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify is a vital step. This ensures your online store has a custom web address. This process might seem complicated, but it’s straightforward. Let’s break it down into simple steps.
Logging Into Shopify
First, log into your Shopify admin panel. Use your credentials to access your account. This is your store’s control center.
Accessing Domains Section
Next, go to the Domains section. In the Shopify admin panel, click on “Settings”. Then, select “Domains”. This is where you manage your store’s domains.
Adding Existing Domain
Now, add your existing Namecheap domain. Click on the “Connect existing domain” button. Enter your domain name in the provided field. Click “Next”. Shopify will provide DNS settings you need to update.
Go to your Namecheap account. Find your domain and click “Manage”. Update the DNS settings as per Shopify’s instructions. This links your domain to Shopify. Save the changes.
Your domain is now connected to Shopify. It may take some time for changes to propagate. Be patient and check your store’s new web address later.
Verifying Domain Connection
After connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify, the next step is verifying the domain connection. This ensures your domain is correctly linked and ready for use. Follow these steps to make sure everything is set up correctly.
Checking Domain Status
First, log in to your Shopify admin panel. Go to Online Store > Domains. Here, you’ll see a list of your domains. Look for the domain you connected.
If the domain status shows as “Connected”, it means everything is working fine. If not, wait a few hours and check again. DNS changes can take some time to propagate.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, the domain might not connect properly. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Domain not found | Check if the domain is spelled correctly. Verify with Namecheap support. |
| Domain still not connected | Wait for up to 48 hours. DNS changes might still be updating. |
| Incorrect CNAME or A Record | Double-check the records in your Namecheap account. Ensure they match Shopify’s requirements. |
By addressing these issues, you can ensure your domain is properly connected. This will help your customers find your store easily.
Setting Primary Domain
Setting a primary domain is crucial for your online store. It helps customers find your site easily and ensures your brand looks professional. Once you have connected your Namecheap domain to Shopify, the next step is to set your primary domain. Follow these steps to make your Namecheap domain your primary domain on Shopify.
Choosing Primary Domain
Log in to your Shopify admin. Click on “Online Store” and then “Domains”. A list of your connected domains will appear. Find the Namecheap domain you want as your primary. Click on the “Set as primary” button next to it. This will make your Namecheap domain the main address for your store. Your customers will see this domain in their browser’s address bar.
Saving Changes
After selecting your primary domain, ensure your changes are saved. Shopify will automatically save your selection. Refresh your browser to confirm the update. Check your store to see if the new domain is active. This process usually takes a few minutes. Your Namecheap domain should now be your primary domain on Shopify.
Ssl Certificate Setup
SSL Certificate Setup is crucial for securing your Shopify store. It ensures data transmitted between your store and customers is encrypted and safe from prying eyes. This section will guide you through enabling and ensuring a secure connection with SSL on Shopify.
Enabling Ssl In Shopify
First, log in to your Shopify admin panel. From the Settings menu, click on Domains. You will see your primary domain listed. Click on the Enable SSL button next to your domain.
Shopify will begin the process of issuing an SSL certificate for your domain. This can take a few minutes. Once completed, your domain will show SSL activated.
Ensuring Secure Connection
After enabling SSL, verify that your store loads with HTTPS. This ensures all data is encrypted.
Open your website in a browser and check the address bar. You should see a padlock icon and your URL starting with https://.
If you encounter any issues, clear your browser cache and cookies, and then reload your website.
Make sure all internal links within your store use HTTPS. This can be done by updating any hardcoded HTTP links in your theme files.
| Task | Steps |
|---|---|
| Enable SSL | Go to Settings > Domains > Enable SSL |
| Verify SSL | Check for HTTPS and padlock icon |
| Update Links | Ensure all links use HTTPS |
Maintaining a secure connection is vital. It builds trust with your customers and improves your SEO ranking. Follow these steps to ensure your Shopify store is secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Link Namecheap Domain To Shopify?
To link your Namecheap domain to Shopify, you need to update the DNS settings in your Namecheap account. Add the Shopify IP address and configure the CNAME record.
What Are The Dns Settings For Shopify?
The DNS settings include an A record pointing to Shopify’s IP address and a CNAME record for the www subdomain. Ensure these settings are correctly configured in Namecheap.
How Long Does Dns Propagation Take?
DNS propagation can take up to 48 hours. However, it usually takes a few hours. Check your domain status periodically during this time.
Can I Use An Existing Namecheap Domain With Shopify?
Yes, you can use your existing Namecheap domain with Shopify. Update your DNS settings to point to Shopify’s servers.
Conclusion
Connecting your Namecheap domain to Shopify is straightforward. Follow the steps outlined. Your online store will be up and running in no time. Remember to verify your settings. This ensures everything works smoothly. Need help? Shopify’s support team is always available.
Now, you’re ready to sell your products online. Enjoy your new Shopify store!