DNS Records Guide: How to Set Up Email Records for Your Domain

DNS Records Guide: How to Set Up Email Records for Your Domain

By Michael Chen

January 21, 2025 at 02:32 PM

Email DNS Records Setup Guide

Email requires specific DNS records for proper functionality and security. Here's how to configure the essential records for your domain.

MX Records (Mail Exchange) MX records direct email traffic to the correct mail servers. To add them:

  1. Access DNS settings in your domain dashboard
  2. Choose between preset records for popular providers or manual setup
  3. For manual setup:
    • Set record type as MX
    • Use "@" in Host field
    • Enter priority (0-255)
    • Add destination server URL
    • Save and repeat for additional records

Error message displayed on monitor

Error message displayed on monitor

Authentication Records

DKIM Records:

  • Type: TXT or CNAME
  • Purpose: Email authentication
  • Setup: Add host/name and DKIM value from provider

SPF Records:

  • Type: TXT
  • Format: Starts with "v=spf1"
  • Purpose: Prevent email spoofing
  • Note: Multiple SPF records must be merged

DMARC Records:

  • Type: TXT
  • Host: "_dmarc"
  • Purpose: Email validation and spam prevention
  • Requirements:
    • Only one DMARC record per domain
    • Merge multiple records if needed
    • Use more secure policy when merging

SRV Records (Service Records) Required components:

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

Setup process:

  1. Collect required values from service provider
  2. Access DNS settings
  3. Add custom SRV record
  4. Enter service and protocol in Host field
  5. Input weight, port, and target in Data field
  6. Save changes

For common email providers like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or Zoho Mail, use their preset records when available. Always verify records with your email provider's documentation for accurate configuration.

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