How to Set Up Email Authentication for Your Domain

Email authentication is essential to prevent spam and phishing attacks. This guide explains how to configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records for your domain to improve email deliverability and security.

What is Email Authentication?

Email authentication verifies that an email comes from an authorized mail server, ensuring its legitimacy. This helps:

• Protect your domain from being used for malicious emails.
• Improve email delivery rates by proving to recipients that the email is genuine.

Key Email Authentication Methods

1. SPF (Sender Policy Framework)

   • Purpose: Ensures only authorized servers can send emails on behalf of your domain.
   • Record Type: TXT
   • Example:
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     v=spf1 include:mail.cybrohosting.com -all
   • How to Add: Add the SPF record in your domain’s DNS settings via your hosting provider or registrar.

2. DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)

   • Purpose: Adds a cryptographic signature to your emails to verify authenticity.
   • Record Type: TXT
   • Example:
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     v=DKIM1; k=rsa; p=MIIBIjANBgkqhki... (truncated key)
   • How to Add: Generate a DKIM key in your email provider’s settings and publish it in your DNS records.

3. DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)

   • Purpose: Provides instructions on how to handle unauthenticated emails (e.g., reject or quarantine).
   • Record Type: TXT
   • Example:
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     v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:dmarc@cybrohosting.com
   • How to Add: Create a DMARC policy that specifies actions and reporting for unauthenticated emails.

Best Practices for Email Authentication

• Use All Three Methods Together: SPF, DKIM, and DMARC work best when used in combination.
• Monitor DMARC Reports: Regularly review reports to detect unauthorized activity.
• Test Your Configuration: Use tools like MXToolbox to verify records.

Common Issues and Solutions

• Emails Going to Spam: Ensure your SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records are correctly configured.
• SPF Too Restrictive: Use ~all instead of -all during initial testing.
• Missing DNS Records: Double-check propagation status and TTL settings.

Need Assistance?

If you need help setting up email authentication, contact our support team by opening a ticket through your Client Area or emailing us at support@cybrohosting.com.