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When setting up a professional website, registering your domain name is often the very first step. While it’s tempting to register your domain through your website builder—like Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress.com—this approach can severely limit your long-term flexibility, especially when it comes to managing DNS settings and integrating advanced services.
This article explains why we recommend using a dedicated domain registrar like Dynadot, NameCheap, GoDaddy, or 123 Reg, instead of relying on niche or platform-locked domain services. Choosing the right registrar now can save you significant time, money, and stress later.
What Is a Domain Registrar?
A domain registrar is a company accredited to sell domain names (like ). It manages your domain registration and provides access to essential DNS (Domain Name System) settings that control how your domain connects to web servers, email platforms, and other online services.
Not all domain registrars are created equal. The key differences often come down to ownership transparency, DNS control, security options, and support availability.
Why DNS Control Is Crucial for Website and Email Management
DNS is what makes your domain name usable on the internet. Full DNS control allows you to:
- Point your domain to any hosting provider (e.g., a fast WordPress host)
- Connect to third-party email providers like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365
- Add verification records for SEO tools, analytics, and ads (e.g., Google Search Console, Facebook Pixel)
- Implement security protocols such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to prevent email spoofing
- Create subdomains or redirects to support marketing campaigns, microsites, or mobile versions
Without full DNS access, you’re often unable to make these changes or must wait for slow support responses—something no growing business can afford.
The Limitations of Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress.com as Domain Providers
Website builders like Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress.com are not traditional domain registrars. They often resell domains through intermediaries and intentionally limit your DNS control to keep you within their ecosystem. The downsides include:
- Limited or no access to full DNS records
- Inability to integrate professional-grade email services
- Difficulty verifying ownership for SEO tools
- Vendor lock-in, making migration to another hosting platform harder
- Restricted support, especially if you’re trying to do something outside their standard use case
Even if your website starts small, these limitations will slow you down as your needs become more advanced.
Why We Recommend Major Domain Registrars with Full DNS Access
For full control and long-term flexibility, we recommend choosing one of the following independent domain registrars:
Dynadot (Our Primary Supplier)
A reliable, user-friendly registrar offering full DNS control, advanced security settings (like two-factor authentication), and straightforward domain transfers.
NameCheap (Our Secondary Supplier)
Well-known for excellent support, simple DNS management, and affordable prices. Ideal for both beginners and developers.
GoDaddy
One of the largest registrars in the world. It offers a robust control panel, 24/7 global support, and broad integration with various hosting platforms.
123 Reg
UK-based and well-established, with easy-to-use tools and reliable DNS management for local businesses.
All these providers allow full access to A, CNAME, MX, TXT, and other DNS records—giving you complete control over your domain and its integrations.
Keep Your Domain and Website Hosting Separate for Long-Term Freedom
One of the most common mistakes we see is registering your domain through your website builder, then realising too late that you’re stuck. The better strategy is this:
- Register your domain with a trusted, independent registrar
- Host your website on a platform like Pressific or any fast WordPress host
- Maintain control of your DNS and ownership, no matter where your website lives
This separation gives you the flexibility to switch hosting providers, upgrade your email service, or make security changes—without being blocked by a platform’s limitations.
What If Your Domain Is Already With Squarespace or WordPress.com?
If you’ve already registered your domain with a platform like Squarespace or WordPress.com, don’t worry. It’s usually possible to transfer your domain to a proper registrar. The process involves unlocking your domain, getting an authorisation (EPP) code, and initiating a transfer on your chosen registrar’s platform.
We can help guide you through this process to ensure nothing is lost in the transition.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Registrar From the Start
Registering your domain with a full-featured domain registrar—not your website builder—is one of the smartest technical decisions you can make. It gives you more control, better performance options, and freedom to scale your digital presence over time.
If you’re unsure where to register your domain, we recommend starting with Dynadot or NameCheap. They’re reliable, transparent, and give you everything you need to manage your domain like a pro.
And when you’re ready to pair your domain with fast, secure hosting and expert website care, Pressific is here to help.
