Email DNS Records Setup Guide

Setting up email DNS records properly ensures reliable email delivery and authentication. Here's how to configure essential records for your domain.

MX Records (Mail Exchange)

• Purpose: Routes emails to correct mail servers
• Add via preset records for common providers (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Fastmail, etc.)
• Or manually add custom records:
  1. Select MX as record type
  2. Use @ in Host field (or subdomain if applicable)
  3. Enter priority number (0-255)
  4. Add mail server URL in Data field

DKIM and SPF Records (Authentication)

• Add as TXT or CNAME records
• DKIM authenticates sender
• SPF prevents email spoofing
• Steps:
  1. Select TXT/CNAME type
  2. Enter host information or @
  3. Input provider's DKIM/SPF record
  4. Multiple SPF records automatically combine

DMARC Records (Domain Verification)

• Add as TXT record
• Host field: enter _dmarc
• Helps prevent spam flagging
• Only one DMARC record allowed per domain
• Multiple records must be combined:
  • Separate email addresses with commas
  • Use strictest policy values

SRV Records (Service Records) Required information:

• Service name (e.g., _smtp)
• Protocol (e.g., _tcp)
• Priority (optional)
• Weight (single digit)
• Port number
• Target URL

Setup steps:

1. Gather provider information
2. Select SRV record type
3. Enter service._protocol in Host field
4. Add priority if provided
5. Input "Weight Port Target" in Data field
6. Save changes

For optimal email delivery:

• Verify all records are correctly formatted
• Allow 24-48 hours for DNS propagation
• Test email functionality after setup
• Keep provider documentation handy
• Monitor email delivery performance

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