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Set up your Domain's DNS: SPF, DKIM, DMARC and Forwarding

Guide on DNS records. You don't want to miss it if you want to land in inbox, not spam.

Written by plusvibe.ai Support Team


Hello 👋

If you're utilizing your own domain for email, setting up certain DNS records is essential.

Key DNS Records:

  • MX Records: Essential for directing emails to you. Without them, you won't receive any emails.

  • SPF Record: Identifies which domains are authorized to send emails on your behalf.

  • DKIM Record: Adds a digital signature to your emails, aiding in traceability and preventing email spoofing.

  • DMARC Record: Validates that your emails are legitimately from your domain.

👉 In short, to ensure your email account functions effectively, you need to have all four of these DNS records set up.


Domain Provider Specific Guides:

For other domain name providers, you can use the following resources:

  1. Setting Up MX Records:

    • Crucial for receiving emails. Refer to your email provider's guide for accurate setup.

    • Google Workspace: link

    • Office 365: link

  2. Setting Up SPF:

    • Google/GSuite SPF guide: link

    • Office 365 SPF guide: link

    • Verify your SPF setup using this tool or your Pipl.ai dashboard.

  3. Setting Up DKIM:

    • Google/GSuite DKIM guide: link

    • Office 365 DKIM guide: link

    • Recommended DKIM Selectors:

      • Google/GSuite - "google"

      • Office 365 - "microsoft"

      • Other providers - "default"

    • Check your DKIM setup using this tool or your Pipl.ai dashboard.

  4. Setting Up DMARC:

    • Configure DKIM and SPF first, and let them authenticate messages for at least 48 hours before activating DMARC.

    • Google Workspace DMARC guide: link

    • Microsoft office 365 guide : link

    • Alternatively, consider a third-party DMARC provider like Postmark: link

    • Verify your DMARC setup using this tool or your Pipl.ai dashboard.

Optional - Forwarding Setup:

  • Forward new domains to your main domain via your domain provider's settings.

  • GoDaddy users can follow this guide.

Do These Records Affect Deliverability?

  • Absolutely!

    • Without an MX record, receiving replies is impossible.

    • SPF, DKIM, and DMARC significantly impact your account's performance.

Testing DNS Records:

  • Before connecting accounts, test your records using third-party tools like Easydmarc.com, MXToolbox, or DMARCian.

  • Enter your domain into these tools to check if everything is set up correctly.

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