Starting your online business is exciting, and launching your Shopify store is a crucial milestone. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for those wondering, 'How do I make my Shopify store live?' or 'How do I know if my Shopify store is live?'.
Before Making Your Store Live
Before launching your Shopify store, it’s essential to ensure that all critical preparations are completed. A well-prepared store not only builds trust but also sets the foundation for a successful launch and long-term growth. Double-check these key steps before launching your store:
-
Add your products with high-quality images and descriptions.
-
Configure your shipping rates and tax settings.
-
Set up your payment gateway.
-
Customize your store theme and branding.
Making Your Shopify Store Live
Step 1: Remove Password Protection
-
Go to your Shopify admin dashboard.
-
Click on "Online Stores" in the bottom left corner.
-
Select "Preferences".
-
Scroll to "Password protection".
-
Uncheck "Enable password protection".
-
Click "Save".
Step 2: Add a Custom Domain
-
In Settings, click "Domains".
-
Choose either:
- Buy a new domain through Shopify.
- Connect an existing domain.
-
Follow the domain setup wizard instructions.
-
Wait for DNS changes to propagate (can take up to 48 hours).
Step 3: Verify Your Store is Live
To know if your Shopify store is live, perform these checks:
-
Open an incognito browser window.
-
Visit your store's domain.
-
Verify you can access the store without a password.
-
Test the checkout process with a sample order.
Final Checklist Before Launch
-
Preview your store on both desktop and mobile devices.
-
Test all navigation links.
-
Ensure all products are properly priced.
-
Verify your contact information is correct.
-
Test your payment gateway with a real transaction.
If you can access your store without password protection and complete a test purchase, congratulations – your Shopify store is now live and ready for customers!
Conclusion
Remember to regularly monitor your store's performance and make updates as needed to ensure the best shopping experience for your customers.