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Ensuring Seamless Email Delivery with Proper DNS Configuration

By Sreeprabha

Published on December 21 , 2024

The seamless delivery of emails, especially after a website migration or new domain setup, depends on the coordinated efforts of DNS, Mail Service Providers (MSPs), and web hosting services. DNS directs internet traffic, including emails, to the correct destinations through MX records. MSPs handle the transmission, reception, and storage of emails, requiring accurate DNS configuration and authentication settings. Web hosting services provide the infrastructure and often integrate with email services, necessitating proper DNS management and IP address configuration. A harmonious interplay between these three components ensures reliable email delivery and avoids issues like email bouncing.

  1. Domain Name Servers (DNS):
    • The Digital Address Book: DNS translates human-readable domain names (like example.com) into machine-readable IP addresses.
    • Role in Email: DNS points to the mail servers responsible for handling email for the domain. This ensures that emails sent to the domain are routed to the correct servers.
  1. Email Service:
    • The Mailbox: Email services provide the infrastructure for sending, receiving, and storing emails.
    • Integration with DNS: The DNS settings (MX records) point to the email servers, directing incoming emails to the right place.
  1. Web Hosting Service:
    • The Website’s Home: Web hosting services provide the space and resources to store your website’s files.
    • DNS Integration: The DNS records for the domain should point to the web servers provided by the hosting service.

Key DNS Records for Email:

  1. MX (Mail Exchanger) Records:
    • These records specify the mail servers responsible for handling email for the domain.
    • They should point to the mail servers of the email hosting provider.

2. SPF (Sender Policy Framework) Records:

    • SPF records authenticate the source of emails sent from the domain.
    • They specify which IP addresses are authorized to send email on behalf of your domain.

3. DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) Records:

    • DKIM records add another layer of authentication to your emails.
    • They use public-private key cryptography to verify the sender’s identity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Configure DNS Records:

  1.  Access Your Domain Registrar:
    • Log in to your domain registrar’s control panel (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap,
  2. Find DNS Management:
    • Locate the DNS management section, often labeled as “DNS,” “Domain Names,” or similar.

3. Add or Modify MX Records:

Your email hosting provider will provide you with the specific MX records to add.

    • Typically, you’ll add multiple MX records with different priorities.
    • Ensure the MX records point to the correct mail servers.

4. Add SPF and DKIM Records:

Your email provider will provide the necessary SPF and DKIM records.

      • Add these records to your DNS settings.

All these records must be correctly configured in the website hosted server (DNS resolver) for the email to work properly

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • DNS Propagation: DNS propagation takes few minutes to hours to propagate across the internet.
  • Check Email Server Settings: Check the settings on the  email server for the configuration.
  • Test Email Delivery: Send test emails and check email delivery.
  • Use Online Tools: Utilize tools like MX Toolbox or DNS checker to verify DNS settings.

About the author

Sreeprabha is a dedicated product manager with a passion for learning and adapting to evolving technological advancements. She is currently focused on managing web development projects, implementing best SEO practices, and optimizing website performance to deliver exceptional user experiences.

About Innovin Labs

Innovin Labs is a team of passionate, self-motivated engineers committed to delivering high-quality, innovative products. Leveraging AI tools, we focus on enhancing productivity, accelerating development, and maintaining exceptional quality standards. Driven by technical expertise and a passion for solving challenges, we strive to create impactful products that shape and improve the future.

Stuck on a technical issue? Our team is here to help! Share your questions with us at [email protected] and we’ll provide personalized assistance