Business email setup checklist (DNS + SPF/DKIM/DMARC)

Email deliverability is mostly about trust. Proper DNS records tell Gmail/Outlook your messages are legitimate.

Step 1: MX records

Set MX records to your email provider. Keep old MX until the migration is complete.

Step 2: SPF

SPF is a TXT record listing servers allowed to send for your domain. Keep it accurate and avoid multiple SPF records.

Step 3: DKIM

DKIM signs outgoing mail. Add the DKIM TXT record provided by your email service.

Step 4: DMARC

DMARC enforces policy and provides reports. Start with p=none, then move to quarantine or reject after validation.

Quick troubleshooting

• Messages going to spam? Check SPF alignment and DKIM pass.
• Bounced mail? Confirm MX and TTL.
• Using third-party senders (Mailchimp)? Add them to SPF and DKIM.