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How To Set Up DKIM & SPF

A step-by-step guide to authenticate your domain for better deliverability

Written by Michael Batalha

Email authentication proves your messages aren’t forged. The two most common methods are:

  • SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Let's mailbox providers verify that the server sending mail for your domain is authorized.

  • DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Cryptographically signs your mail so receivers can confirm it was sent by (and not altered after leaving) your domain.

You will need: Access to your DNS (e.g., GoDaddy, Cloudflare, cPanel, Namecheap).

For detailed instructions, please check our instructions video:

Step 1: Add DKIM (TXT record)

Create a TXT record in your DNS:

  • Record Type: TXT

  • Host / Name: em._domainkey

  • Value (TXT): v=DKIM1; g=*; k=rsa; p=MIGfMA0GCSqGSIb3DQEBAQUAA4GNADCBiQKBgQC75RQss0FsR1dIiQ8fJwD8RJlktEdllRbjHKZcMv8GBnCSqoyNzjuoA6Xn3sJkIw6ZR9eB4hiz1yEdJSVsQKnOCzfLfPFqFbC5z6fBNJ6h/JNHNkcRTaiSwQXxvtP4jpBRbzOoK8rxSDwvPITLhh63xgXomiGYmaMsWkIvVfBnhQIDAQAB

Notes

  • Some DNS UIs auto-append your domain. If asked for the full host, enter em._domainkey.yourdomain.com.

  • Keep it as a single line (no extra spaces/quotes).

Step 2: Add/Update SPF (TXT record)

If you do not have an SPF record yet, create:

Note: If you already have an SPF record, just add "include:spf1-srvs.em01.net" to the existing SPF record.

Example: Let's say you have the following SPF record: v=spf1 +a +mx +ip4:122.133.144.155 include:spf.test.com ~all

After adding "include:spf1-srvs.em01.net" to the existing SPF record, you should have v=spf1 +a +mx +ip4:122.133.144.155 include:spf.test.com include:spf1-srvs.em01.net ~all

Propagation: DNS changes can take time. It may update in minutes, but allow up to 24 hours (sometimes 48 with certain providers) before everything turns green. Avoid sending until checks pass.


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