Before we start, let's just put it out there. You will save time if you buy a domain through Shopify. We take care of the whole set up so all you have to do is choose the domain. Tempted? Read more here.

If you already bought a domain, that's ok, you can still use it :)

90% of the set up will need to be done through your domain provider. This is a general guide since every domain provider has a different interface. You're welcome to contact your domain provider directly and give them this tutorial. They'll know what to do!

If your domain has a "www", "shop" or "store" prefix, skip to Step 2.

STEP 1: Taking care of your non "www" domain.

Contact your domain registrar and tell them example.com needs to point to www.example.com using a permanent web redirect.

If your domain registar doesn't do URL redirects, use an A record to point to IP address 204.93.213.45 (That IP address works for all Shopify shops):

The disadvantage of using an A record is that IP addresses are subject to change over time, which can leave your shop inaccessible. However, we will give you plenty of notice before the IP address changes.

STEP 2: Taking care of your "www" domain

Tell your domain registrar that www.example.com needs a CNAME record to point to example.myshopify.com:

STEP 3: Final step: claim your domain in Shopify

Once you've forward your domain,
1. Login to your Shopify shop
2. Go to the PREFERENCES tab > DNS & Domains
4. Click "Add a domain your already own".

Look for the step-by-step instructions here in our wiki.