Your Complete Guide to Email Authentication & DMARC

Master email security with our comprehensive documentation covering DMARC, SPF, DKIM, and beyond. From fundamentals to advanced implementation.

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Choose your path based on your current needs and expertise level

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I'm New to DMARC

Understand the fundamentals of email authentication and why it matters

Start with basics
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I Need to Implement

Ready to set up DMARC for your domain? Get step-by-step guidance

See DNS specifications
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I Have Issues

Emails going to spam? Domain being spoofed? Find solutions here

Check my domain

πŸ“š Complete Documentation Library

Deep dive into every aspect of email authentication and security

Beginner 10 min read

Introduction to DMARC

Understand what DMARC is, how it works, and why every domain owner needs it for email security.

You'll learn:
  • DMARC fundamentals
  • How alignment works
  • Policy enforcement
Intermediate 15 min read

DMARC DNS Specifications

Complete technical guide to DMARC record syntax, tags, and proper DNS configuration.

You'll learn:
  • Record syntax & tags
  • Policy configuration
  • RUA/RUF reporting
Beginner 8 min read

Why DMARC Was Developed

The history and motivation behind DMARC creation and its role in combating email fraud.

You'll learn:
  • Email fraud history
  • Industry collaboration
  • DMARC benefits
Beginner 12 min read

History of Email Vulnerabilities

Evolution of email threats and how authentication standards developed to combat them.

You'll learn:
  • Email threat timeline
  • Attack techniques
  • Security evolution
Intermediate 10 min read

SMTP Limitations & Open Relays

Understanding SMTP protocol weaknesses and how open relays enable email abuse.

You'll learn:
  • SMTP vulnerabilities
  • Open relay risks
  • Security measures
Intermediate 12 min read

SPF: Strengths & Weaknesses

Complete guide to SPF records, common pitfalls, and the 10-lookup limit challenge.

You'll learn:
  • SPF mechanisms
  • Common mistakes
  • Optimization tips
Intermediate 12 min read

DKIM: Strengths & Weaknesses

Master DKIM signatures, key management, and selector strategies for email authentication.

You'll learn:
  • Cryptographic signing
  • Key rotation
  • Selector management
Advanced 10 min read

Understanding MTA-STS

Enforce TLS encryption for email delivery and prevent downgrade attacks with MTA-STS.

You'll learn:
  • TLS enforcement
  • Policy configuration
  • TLSRPT reporting
Advanced 8 min read

Understanding BIMI

Display your brand logo in email clients with BIMI visual authentication standard.

You'll learn:
  • Logo requirements
  • VMC certificates
  • Implementation steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is DMARC and why do I need it?

DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) is an email authentication protocol that protects your domain from unauthorized use. It prevents email spoofing, phishing attacks, and improves email deliverability. Learn more about DMARC fundamentals.

How do I set up a DMARC record?

Setting up DMARC involves creating a TXT record in your DNS with specific tags like policy (p=), aggregate reports (rua=), and alignment rules. Start with p=none for monitoring, then gradually move to quarantine or reject. See complete DNS specifications.

What's the difference between SPF, DKIM, and DMARC?

SPF validates sending servers, DKIM provides cryptographic signatures for email integrity, and DMARC ties them together with alignment policies and reporting. All three work together for complete email authentication. Read about SPF and DKIM in detail.

Why are my emails going to spam?

Emails can go to spam due to missing or misconfigured authentication records, poor sender reputation, or content issues. Start by checking your DMARC, SPF, and DKIM alignment. Use our free domain checker to diagnose issues.

What is MTA-STS and do I need it?

MTA-STS enforces TLS encryption for email delivery, preventing downgrade attacks and man-in-the-middle interception. It's recommended for organizations handling sensitive data. Learn about MTA-STS implementation.