Key takeaways
- In Shopify: Settings → Domains → Connect existing domain.
- At your registrar, point the A record to Shopify's IP and the www CNAME to
shops.myshopify.com. - Don't touch MX records, or your email will break.
Step 1: Start the connection in Shopify
Open domain settings
Go to Settings → Domains and click Connect existing domain.
Enter your domain
Type your domain (e.g.
yourstore.com) and click Next. Shopify may offer to connect automatically for supported providers. Use that if it appears.
Step 2: Update your DNS records
If automatic setup isn't available, log in to your domain provider and edit these records:
| Type | Name / Host | Value / Points to |
|---|---|---|
| A | @ | 23.227.38.65 |
| CNAME | www | shops.myshopify.com |
Always confirm the current values shown in your Shopify admin, as Shopify displays the exact records for your store.
Delete any other A or AAAA records on @ that point somewhere else. Leave MX and TXT records for email in place.
Step 3: Verify and set as primary
Back in Shopify, click Verify connection. Once it's connected, set it as your primary domain so all traffic redirects to one address. That's important for SEO.
Provider-specific notes
| Provider | Where to edit DNS | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| GoDaddy | My Products → DNS | Remove the default "Parked" A record |
| Namecheap | Domain List → Manage → Advanced DNS | Delete the URL redirect record |
| Cloudflare | DNS → Records | Set the records to DNS only (grey cloud) so Shopify's SSL works |
| Google/Squarespace Domains | DNS → Custom records | Remove default website records |
Common errors and fixes
- "Domain not connected": an old A record is still present. Delete every
@record not pointing to Shopify. - SSL pending: wait up to 48 hours. On Cloudflare, turn off proxying for these records.
- www works but root doesn't (or vice versa): check you added both records.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to connect a domain to Shopify?
DNS changes often work within an hour but can take up to 48 hours to spread worldwide. Shopify issues the SSL certificate automatically once the records are correct.
Should I buy my domain through Shopify?
Buying through Shopify is the simplest because DNS is configured for you. Buying elsewhere can be slightly cheaper and keeps your domain separate from your store.
Can I keep email working when I connect my domain to Shopify?
Yes. Only change the A record and the www CNAME. Leave your MX records alone so your email keeps working.