An SPF record is a type of Domain Name System (DNS) record that identifies which mail servers are authorized to send email on behalf of your domain. SPF records help to prevent email spoofing, a type of cyber attack in which attackers send emails that appear to come from a legitimate source.

Creating an SPF record for your domain is a relatively simple process. First, you will need to identify the mail servers that are authorized to send email on behalf of your domain. Next, you will need to create a text file that contains the SPF record. You will need to add the SPF record to your network's DNS records just like duocircle.com

Adding an SPF record to your DNS records can be done using a variety of methods. The most common method is to use a DNS management tool provided by your domain registrar or DNS hosting provider. Alternatively, you can add the SPF record to your DNS zone file

What is an SPF Record?

An SPF record or SPF TXT record is a DNS record that belongs in your domain's DNS like a DMARC record. It contains a list of all IP addresses that are authorized to send emails on behalf of your domain. When an email address is attempted to forward an established email address to an email receiver for delivery, the email server checks for the sender to be on your domain name's list of allowed senders.

You are ready to maintain your address confidential against spoofing and phishing attacks by creating your SPF record. Each server is allowed to send authenticated email from the address by authenticating it by means of a checking system provided by your domain's administrator.

How do I add an SPF Record

You will want access to the DNS control panel in your domain to add SPF protection records. If you are using a hosting provider, implementing the procedure will be simple, and their documentation should include helpful details. If you're uncertain, check with IT services providers to obtain further assistance.

How do I create an SPF Record?

Collect a list of all your domain names, collectively called SPF records, with each record referring to a particular domain. Be sure to include inactive (or parked ) domains that don't send email in order to protect them from abuse as well. You will also need to identify and register anything that sends email from your domain(s), including third parties that send email on behalf of your domain.

• Mail Servers (both web-based like Gmail or via your ISP and in-office like Microsoft Exchange)
• ESPs (Email Service Providers – companies that provide email marketing/bulk email services)
• Miscellaneous services (e.g., support/ticketing systems, payment providers, e-merchant services, etc.)

Why are SPF records used?

There are many reasons domain operators use SPF records:

• Preventing attacks: Emails that are unverified are conveniently susceptible to phishing attacks, spam emails, and email spoofing. With an SPF record, it is harder for hackers to make it appear as if it is a domain name, thus limiting the likelihood of these attacks.

• Improving email deliverability:   Domains which have not published a valid SPF standing may have their emails rerouting to a junk item. Over some time, bounced emails or the ones that were labeled spam may hinder a domain's capability to reach its audience inboxes, limiting its capacity to communicate with customers, office staff, and other individuals and organizations.

• DMARC compliance:  DMARC is an email validation system that ensures only authorized users send emails. DMARC policies set out how email servers are to assume that emails that have failed SPF and DKIM checks have been sent. Based on the DMARC rules, such emails will either be returned to the sender as unsolicited or communicated normally.

All in all, setting up an SPF record for your domain is an essential step for protecting your emails from being flagged as spam by other mail servers. It's a simple process that requires a bit of knowledge about the DNS settings of your hosting provider. With a few clicks, you can ensure that your emails are safe and secure from malicious actors who wish to exploit your domain.