Setting up your DNS records might feel technical, but it’s an important step to improve your overall email deliverability and avoid emails bouncing or landing in spam.
SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
SPF tells receiving servers which IP addresses are allowed to send emails on behalf of your domain. Think of it like giving a messenger proof that they’re authorized to deliver your mail. Without SPF, your recipient’s server may reject your emails or mark them as suspicious.
If you’re sending through Google (which is the case for most Overloop users), follow Google’s instructions to set up SPF:
The process of adding DNS records depends on your domain host. Here are links to popular providers:
Amazon Web Services: Configuring DNS, Resource Record Types
GoDaddy: Add a CNAME Record
Google Domains: DNS Basics
Hostgator: Manage DNS records
Hover: Edit DNS Record
Namecheap: SPF & DKIM
Squarespace: Advanced DNS Settings
Stablehost: How do I get to cpanel?
DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
DKIM works like a digital seal of authenticity for your emails. It allows the receiving server to confirm that the message wasn’t altered and truly comes from your domain.
Here’s how it works:
Private key: Generated on your domain, kept secret, and used to sign your outgoing emails.
Public key: Added to your DNS records. Recipient servers use it to verify the signature in your emails.
For Google users: follow Google’s DKIM setup guide.
For Microsoft users: follow Microsoft's DKIM setup guide.
For other domain providers, please refer to their documentation (see links above).