Understanding Email DNS Records
Email delivery relies on several DNS record types working together. Properly configured records ensure your emails reach their destination and protect against spoofing.
Essential Email Records
- MX (Mail Exchange): Specifies mail servers that handle emails for the domain Specifies mail servers that handle email for the domain
- SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Lists authorized sending servers in a TXT record Lists authorized sending servers in a TXT record
- DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Cryptographic signature for email authentication Cryptographic signature for email authentication
- DMARC: Policy on how to handle emails that fail SPF/DKIM checks Policy for handling failed SPF/DKIM checks
Why Email Authentication Matters
- Prevents email spoofing and phishing
- Improves email deliverability
- Protects brand reputation
- Mandated by major email providers (Google, Microsoft)