Ensure Your DNS Records are Correct for Optimal Email Deliverability
The DNS test is a critical step in ensuring your email domain is properly configured for optimal deliverability. These records play an essential role in determining whether your emails will reach your recipients’ inboxes or get caught in spam filters. DNS tests also consume credits, which are allocated monthly based on your plan.
After you connect your mailbox, the test automatically runs to validate all the DNS records that affect email authentication and routing
Note: DNS tests are not supported for mailboxes using shared domains (e.g., @gmail.com, @outlook@.com)
Why DNS records matter
Each DNS record type performs a specific function, directly influencing how email providers identify and authenticate your emails. Here are the key records our DNS test checks, and why each one is important:
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SPF (Sender Policy Framework): This DNS record defines which mail servers are allowed to send emails on behalf of your domain. An invalid or missing SPF record can cause your emails to be flagged as spam or rejected by receiving servers. It’s crucial for preventing email spoofing and improving your sender's reputation. Learn more
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DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): DKIM adds a digital signature to your emails, confirming that the message has not been altered in transit and that it’s from a legitimate sender. This helps prevent tampering and impersonation, making your emails more trustworthy and reducing the chance of them being marked as spam. Learn more
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DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance): DMARC ties together SPF and DKIM, telling receiving email servers how to handle emails that fail authentication. It provides reports and feedback on your email authentication and is essential for protecting your domain from phishing and spoofing. Learn more
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rDNS (Reverse DNS Lookup): rDNS ensures that the IP address used to send your email matches the domain name. This is another key step in preventing spam and phishing. Learn more
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MX Records (Mail Exchange): MX records specify which mail servers are responsible for receiving emails for your domain. Incorrect MX records can cause your emails to fail or bounce, so it’s essential to ensure they are correctly configured to route emails to the right destination. Learn more
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A-record (Address Record): This record links your domain to the IP address of your email or web server, ensuring proper communication between your server and email clients. An incorrect A-record can affect both email delivery and website accessibility. Learn more
Useful links for setting up specific DKIM cases:
DKIM for MS 365
DKIM for GoDaddy
DKIM for GoogleWorkspace
❗ Microsoft doesn't use rDNS, and it will often show as invalid in our test. We are working to adjust our system so that rDNS is not flagged for Outlook mailboxes
When you need to run this test
Running the DNS test is essential when setting up a new email domain or making changes to your DNS records. By running the test after setting up your mailbox, you ensure that your email configuration is correct from the start. DNS issues are often invisible until emails fail to deliver, so proactively checking these records can help you catch any problems before they affect your email campaigns.
Summary
Running the test ensures that all records are functioning correctly and helps maintain your sender reputation. In conclusion, the DNS test is a vital part of ensuring that your emails reach your recipients’ inboxes, improving deliverability, and protecting your domain from misuse. Keep an eye on the test results and recheck your configuration whenever changes are made.
