Introduction

Shopify is a powerful and user-friendly e-commerce platform that lets you set up a professional online store with ease. As a Theory7 customer, you can use Shopify in combination with our hosting and domain services for a fast and stable online store. In this article we explain how you can download, install and configure Shopify through our platform.

Preparation

Before you install Shopify, there are a few things you need:

  1. Domain name: Don't have a domain name yet? Easily register a domain name through our domain name checker!
  2. Hosting plan: Shopify works with a cloud-based system. If you also want professional email, for example, you can take out a hosting plan with us so you can already create an email address.
  3. Shopify account: Make sure you have created a Shopify account at Shopify.com. You can start with a free trial.

Step 1: Create a Shopify account

Before you can install Shopify, you need an account.

  1. Go to www.shopify.com and click "Start free trial.
  2. Enter your email address and choose a strong password.
  3. Enter a unique store name (this temporarily becomes your Shopify domain, for example myshop.myshopify.com).
  4. Answer a few questions about your business and click "Continue.
  5. Enter your business address and contact details and click "Enter my store to continue to your Shopify dashboard.

Step 2: Connect Shopify to your Theory7 domain

If you have a domain name through Theory7, you can easily connect it to your Shopify store.

  1. Log in to your Theory7 dashboard.
  2. Go to Domains and select the domain you want to connect.
  3. Look for the DNS settings and add the following records:
    • CNAME record: www points to shops.myshopify.com
    • A record: points to the IP address Shopify gives you
  4. Save the changes and wait until the DNS settings have been updated (this can take a few hours).
  5. In Shopify, go to Settings > Domains and click Connect existing domain.
  6. Enter your domain name and click Connect.

Step 3: Basic Shopify configuration

After installing Shopify, you can start setting up your online store the way you want.

3.1 Choose your theme

  1. Go to Online Store > Themes.
  2. Click Explore themes and choose a free or premium theme.
  3. Click Add and publish to activate it.

3.2 Add products

  1. Go to Products > Add product.
  2. Enter the product name, description, price and inventory.
  3. Upload product images and set up shipping options.
  4. Click Save to put the product in your store.

3.3 Set up payment methods

  1. Go to Settings > Payments.
  2. Choose a payment provider, such as Shopify Payments, PayPal or iDEAL.
  3. Follow the instructions to connect your payment account.

3.4 Set up shipping

  1. Go to Settings > Shipping and delivery.
  2. Add shipping rates or set up free shipping.
  3. Choose your shipping carriers, such as PostNL or DHL.

Step 4: Take your Shopify store live

Once your online store is ready, you need to turn off password protection. That way everyone can view your website without needing a password.

  1. Go to Online Store > Preferences.
  2. Scroll to Password protection and turn it off.
  3. Click Save.

Your Shopify store is now live, accessible and visible to customers!

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to install Shopify manually on my Theory7 hosting?

No, Shopify is a cloud-based platform, which means you do not need to install anything on a server. You only need to connect your Theory7 domain.

What does Shopify cost?

Shopify offers several subscriptions, from Basic Shopify to Advanced Shopify. Choose the plan that suits your website.

Can I change my online store later?

Yes, you can change products, themes and settings at any time through the Shopify dashboard.

How long does it take before my domain name works with Shopify?

DNS changes can take up to 24 hours to become active worldwide. Check your settings in the Shopify dashboard to see whether everything is connected correctly.

Further reading