How To Add or Change Your Shopify Domain

Establishing a professional online presence for your business often starts with choosing the right domain. Shopify offers a variety of domain options, allowing you to either purchase a new one or connect an existing domain to your store.

This article will guide you through the process of adding or changing your Shopify domain, as well as provide valuable insights on managing your online presence.

Understanding Shopify Domains

Shopify-managed Domains

Shopify-managed domains are those purchased directly through Shopify. When you create a new Shopify store, you automatically receive a free .myshopify.com domain. This domain is primarily used for development purposes and is not recommended for a live store, as it doesn't convey a professional image. However, it's a useful tool for testing and setting up your store before connecting a custom domain.

Additionally, Shopify offers a variety of top-level domains (TLDs) for purchase, which can enhance your branding and credibility. Some popular TLD options include .com, .net, .org, and country-specific TLDs like .ca (Canada) and .co.uk (United Kingdom). When you purchase a Shopify-managed domain, Shopify takes care of domain configuration, renewals, and support, streamlining the process and allowing you to focus on your business.

Third-party Domains

If you already own a domain from a different registrar, such as GoDaddy or Namecheap, you can connect it to your Shopify store as a third-party domain. This option allows you to maintain control over your domain while benefiting from Shopify's eCommerce platform. Connecting a third-party domain to Shopify is straightforward, and Shopify provides detailed instructions to guide you through updating the DNS settings with your registrar.

Once connected, you can manage your third-party domain through Shopify's Domain settings. This includes setting the primary domain, managing redirects, and accessing domain-related features like email hosting and SSL certificates.

By understanding the differences between Shopify-managed domains and third-party domains, you can make an informed decision about which option best suits your business needs.
 

Adding a New Domain to Shopify

To add a new domain to your Shopify store, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Shopify account.
2. Navigate to 'Online Store' > 'Domains'.
3. Click 'Buy new domain'.
4. Enter the desired domain name and select the TLD.
5. Proceed through the checkout process.

Shopify will automatically configure the new domain for your store.
 

Adding an External Domain to Shopify

If you already own a domain from a different registrar, you can add it to your Shopify store as a third-party domain. This process, often referred to as "connecting an external domain," enables you to maintain control over your domain while benefiting from Shopify's eCommerce platform. Follow these steps to add an external domain to your Shopify store:

1. Log in to your Shopify account.
2. Navigate to 'Online Store' > 'Domains'.
3. Click 'Connect existing domain'.
4. Enter your external domain name.
5. Follow the instructions provided to update the DNS settings with your domain registrar.
6. Once the DNS settings are updated, your external domain will be connected to your Shopify store.

By understanding the differences between Shopify-managed domains and third-party domains, you can make an informed decision about which option best suits your business needs.
 

Changing Your Primary Domain

To change your primary domain, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Shopify account.
2. Navigate to 'Online Store' > 'Domains'.
3. Identify the domain you want to set as the primary domain.
4. Click the 'Actions' dropdown menu.
5. Select 'Make primary'.

Your new primary domain will be reflected on your storefront and in search engine results.
 

Connecting a Third-party Domain

To connect a third-party domain to your Shopify store, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Shopify account.
2. Navigate to 'Online Store' > 'Domains'.
3. Click 'Connect existing domain'.
4. Enter your third-party domain name.
5. Follow the instructions provided to update the DNS settings with your domain registrar.

Once the DNS settings are updated, your third-party domain will be connected to your Shopify store.
 

Conclusion: How To Add or Change Your Shopify Domain

This article covers the process of adding or changing your Shopify domain, offering a comprehensive guide to managing your online presence effectively. Whether purchasing a new domain or connecting an existing one, Shopify’s Domain settings provide a user-friendly interface for configuring your store's address.

By following the detailed instructions provided, you will be equipped to establish a professional and accessible store for your customers.