How To Create An SPF Record
For Improved Email Security


Ensuring the security of email is essential for both personal users and companies looking to maintain a safe online identity. A highly effective method to protect your email communications is through the use of Sender Policy Framework (SPF) records. This guide will walk you through setting up an SPF record, helping to secure your email domain and gain the trust of your recipients.


What is an SPF Record?


An SPF record is a specific kind of DNS (Domain Name System) entry that identifies the mail servers permitted to send emails for your domain. This mechanism enables receiving mail servers to verify if incoming messages originate from an authorized sender before they are accepted.


The Importance of SPF in Email Security

SPF is essential for protecting your email infrastructure. In the absence of an SPF record, unauthorized individuals could send emails that look like they originate from your domain, which could harm your reputation. By setting up SPF, you enhance the chances of successful email delivery and guarantee that only verified senders can send messages using your domain.


How SPF Works

Upon receiving an email, the mail server of the recipient examines the SPF record associated with the sender's domain to confirm that the message originates from a legitimate server. Should the SPF record align, the email is accepted. Conversely, if there is a discrepancy, it could either be flagged as spam or outright rejected.




Steps to Create an SPF Record


Step 1: Access Your DNS Settings

To set up an SPF record, you need to reach the DNS configuration for your domain. Typically, domain registrars offer a dashboard that allows you to handle DNS entries. Sign in to the website of your registrar and look for the section dedicated to DNS management. If you're having trouble locating it, refer to your provider's help documentation or get in touch with their customer support team.


Step 2: Understand Your Email Sending Sources

Before establishing the SPF record, determine all servers and services that have permission to send emails for your domain. This could encompass:

  • If you send emails directly from your domain, you can use your mail server. 

  • Alternatively, you can opt for external email providers like Gmail, Mailchimp, or SendGrid. 

Compile a list of these sources, as they must be incorporated into your SPF record.


Step 3: Create the SPF Record Syntax

An SPF record consists of a text string that begins with v=spf1 followed by a list of permitted mail servers. Below is an explanation of the syntax:


  • v spf1: This indicates that the entry is an SPF record. 

  • ip4:IP ADDRESS or ip6:IP ADDRESS: This permits designated IP addresses or ranges. 

  • include:domain.com: This incorporates the SPF records from other domains or services authorized to send emails for you. 

  • all: This is placed after the record to define the default action for emails that do not conform to the record.

An example of a simple SPF record could appear as follows:

v=spf1 ip4:192.168.1.1 include:mailchimp.com -all

This document signifies:


  • Emails originating from the IP address 192.168.1.1 are permitted. 

  • Additionally, emails dispatched through Mailchimp's mail servers are also approved. 

  • All other sources are not allowed (-all).

Step 4: Add the SPF Record to Your DNS

After you have generated the SPF record, the next step is to incorporate it into your domain's DNS configuration. To achieve this:


  • Navigate to the DNS management area and add a new TXT record. 

  • For the Name field, input @ or leave it empty based on what your provider specifies. 

  • In the Value field, insert the SPF record you generated. 

  • Adjust the TTL (Time to Live) setting to its standard value, which is typically 3600 seconds or 1 hour. 

  • Finally, ensure you save your modifications.

The new SPF record could take as long as 48 hours to fully spread throughout the DNS system.



Step 5: Test Your SPF Record

There are numerous online tools designed for SPF validation that can assist you. These resources will confirm if your SPF record is configured accurately and if it corresponds with the approved mail servers associated with your domain.


Step 6: Monitor and Update Your SPF Record Regularly


SPF records require ongoing management rather than being a one-time setup. Whenever you make changes to your email services, such as incorporating a new email provider or changing your hosting, it's essential to revise your SPF record. Learn more by visiting this link.