Remove the “www” from your website domain
When the internet was first introduced, using the prefix “www” before a domain name identified the site as one used as an informational website, as opposed to “ftp” for file transfer services or “mail” for email services.
You can open a website with or without the “www” prefix
These days, you can find most websites by omitting the “www” from a website domain. When the “www” is dropped from a website domain, it’s also referred to as a naked domain (which can cause some interesting search results if you look for that phrase online!). Squarespace websites are set up to be identified with or without the “www” automatically.
However, you’ll notice the website URL shown in the browser address bar when you open a website either shows the prefix of “www” or not, regardless of what was entered as the URL (compare, for example, https://kerryathompson.com to https://www.kerryathompson.com).
A shorter URL without “www” is more convenient for readers
As a cosmetic improvement, Squarespace gives you the ability to remove the “www” when your website is open in a browser address bar. Shortening the website URL makes it easier to type directly in a browser or when using the URL for links. It also highlights your naked domain name, making it more visible and memorable (so to speak!).
You can choose the option to remove the “www” for any primary domain associated with a Squarespace website, whether it’s registered with Squarespace or a third party.
Changing your domain settings to remove the “www”
Watch the video of this procedure or read the instructions below.
Changing the website settings for the primary domain
With your website open in Squarepace, click Settings.
Click the primary domain name to open its settings.
Switch “Use ‘www’ prefix” off.
Your choice is saved automatically.
Close the Settings window.
Verifying the change
With a Squarespace domain, this change takes effect immediately (you may have to refresh your browser). With a third-party domain, this change can sometimes take 24–72 hours to be seen.
When you open the website in a browser, notice that the URL shown is now a shorter version without the "www."
URL with "www" removed
An easy cosmetic change like removing the “www” from your domain name can have a subtle, positive influence on how visitors perceive your business and your online presence. I recommend changing it for your website, preferably before you launch, but it can be done after too.
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Kerry A. Thompson
You don’t need a big agency to get your website done. You just need the one right person. I offer Squarespace website design and content development services for creatives, coaches, and healers. Learn more in a free 30-minute consultation.