Hi there 👋
If you're using your own domain for your email, you need to set up some DNS records.
MX records: MX records direct emails to you; without them, no emails will arrive :(
SPF record: SPF record specifies authorized domains to send emails.
DKIM record: DKIM adds a signature to emails, making them easier to trace and preventing spoofing.
DMARC record: DMARC authenticates emails, letting the world know they were sent from a legitimate source.
👉 Put simply, you need all four of the above records for your email account to function well.
Using GoDaddy as a domain name provider? Here are some specific guides:
Using NameCheap as a domain name provider? Here are some specific guides:
In general or if you're using any other domain name providers you can use the resources below to set it up.
1) Set up MX records
Setting up the MX record is critical - you should refer to your email provider's official guide for the latest information.
2) Set up SPF
You can check if your SPF is set up properly using this tool, or your Instantly dashboard.
3) Set up DKIM
Again, assuming you are using Google Workspace you can follow this guide to set up DKIM.
You can check if your DKIM is set up properly using this tool, or your Instantly dashboard.
4) Set up DMARC
Important: Configure DKIM and SPF before configuring DMARC. DKIM and SPF should be authenticating messages for at least 48 hours before turning on DMARC.
Assuming you are using Google Workspace you can follow this guide to set up DMARC.
You may also choose to use a third-party DMARC provider like that from Postmark [link].
You can check if your DMARC is set up properly using this tool, or your Instantly dashboard.
Optional: Set up Forwarding
Also, you want to forward the new domains to your main domain. This can be done in the settings of your domain provider. If you are using GoDaddy, you can follow this guide.
Do the records impact deliverability? 🤔
Yes!
Well, without an MX record, you won't even be able to receive replies.
As for the other 3, they totally do impact your account's performance.
Test DNS Records
To test your records before connecting accounts, you can use some of the third-party tools, such as Easydmarc.com, MXToolbox for MX records, DMARCian, etc.
Simply type your domain in one of these tools, and it will show you if everything is setup correctly.
