Step-By-Step Guide To Using An
SPF Checker For Your Domain


In the current digital environment, safeguarding your domain from email spoofing and phishing attacks is crucial. An essential component for this task is an SPF (Sender Policy Framework) checker. This manual will provide you with a step-by-step tutorial on utilizing an SPF checker for your domain, guaranteeing that your email security measures are strong and reliable.


What is an SPF Checker?


A specialized SPF verification tool is utilized to authenticate and address any issues with SPF records linked to your domain. These records play a vital role in ensuring that emails originating from your domain are sent from approved servers, thereby safeguarding against unauthorized entities attempting to send deceitful emails under your name. Explore this webpage to find additional information.


Step-by-Step Guide 




Step 1: Preparing Your SPF Record

If you haven't already created an SPF record, you’ll need to do so. Here’s a basic structure of an SPF record:

v=spf1 ip4:192.0.2.0/24 ip4:198.51.100.123 include:spf.example.com -all


  •  v=spf1: Indicates the version of SPF being used.

  • ip4:192.0.2.0/24 and ip4:198.51.100.123: Specifies the IP addresses allowed to send emails.

  • include:spf.example.com: Includes other domains whose servers are authorized to send emails on your behalf.

  • -all: Indicates that emails not from the listed IP addresses should be rejected.

Step2: Adding the SPF Record to Your DNS

Once your SPF record is ready, you need to add it to your DNS settings. Here’s how you can do it:


  • Access Your DNS Management Tool: Access the control panel of your domain registrar or DNS hosting provider by logging in.

  • Locate Your Domain:Determine the scope within which you intend to incorporate the SPF record.

  • Add a New Record: Generate a fresh TXT entry and input your SPF record into the designated value section.

  • Save Changes: Save the changes to update your DNS settings.

Step 3: Choosing an SPF Checker Tool

There are several SPF checker tools available online, both free and paid. Some popular options include:


  • MXToolbox SPF Checker

  • Kitterman SPF Validator

  • DMARC Analyzer SPF Record Checker

  • SPF Survey by UnlockTheInbox

Step 4: Using the SPF Checker Tool

Here’s a step-by-step guide on using an SPF checker:


  • Access the SPF Checker: Access your preferred SPF verification tool through your internet browser.

  • Enter Your Domain: Please enter your domain name in the designated field. This is the domain you wish to verify the SPF record for.

  • Initiate the Check: Please initiate the SPF verification process by selecting the designated button, which could be titled as SPF Check, SPF Validation, or a similar variation.

  • Review the Results: The tool will analyze your SPF record and provide a detailed report. This report usually includes:

    • SPF Record: The SPF record extracted from your domain's DNS settings.

    • Record Validity: The verification of the SPF record's syntactic accuracy is under consideration.

    • IP Addresses: The approved IP addresses for sending emails on behalf of your domain.

    • Includes and Mechanisms: Domains or mechanisms incorporated within the SPF record.



Step5: Interpreting the Results

  • Pass: The SPF record has been properly set up and is operating as intended.

  • Fail: Your SPF record is experiencing complications that require attention. These issues may stem from syntax errors, unauthorized IP addresses, or other underlying problems that need to be resolved.

  • Warnings: These signs could signal possible concerns that may impact the efficiency of your SPF record. For instance, a cautionary alert could indicate that your SPF record is overly lengthy or that you are approaching the DNS lookup threshold.

Step 6: Making Necessary Adjustments

  • Review the Errors or Warnings: Thoroughly review the SPF checker's feedback and make necessary adjustments to your SPF record. This could include rectifying syntax errors, adding or removing IP addresses, or fine-tuning mechanisms based on the guidance provided.

  • Update Your DNS Settings: After adjusting your SPF record, proceed to update your DNS settings according to the instructions outlined in Step 3.

  • Recheck Your SPF Record: Please utilize the SPF checker tool once more to confirm that the adjustments have successfully addressed the issues.

Step 7: Regular Monitoring

It is important to maintain vigilance over your SPF records and not simply establish them and forget about them. It is crucial to consistently review and adjust your SPF record as necessary, particularly in response to any modifications in your email system, such as the addition of new mail servers or alterations in third-party email services.