How to set up your SPF record

Last updated: March 18, 2025

Overview

Many inbox providers use Sender Policy Framework (SPF) records to determine the legitimacy of an email address and detect domain spoofing. To ensure that your emails maintain optimal deliverability, we recommend authenticating your domain with an SPF record.

Read on to learn how to set up your SPF record.


Set up Your SPF Record

Every domain provider has specific instructions on adding SPF records within their platform. Search your domain provider's knowledge base to find step-by-step instructions!

Below are generalized instructions for adding an SPF record to your domain:

  1. Navigate to your Domain Provider

  2. Locate the DNS editor/zone

  3. Add this record: v=spf1 mx include:_spf.sendlane.com ~all

  4. If a host field is required use the ‘@’ symbol

  5. Save your changes

  6. Check your SPF using a tool like MxToolbox

Make sure to add only one SPF record to your domain. Multiple SPF records can cause serious delivery issues because inbox providers will not be able to tell which authentication is real.


Merge SPF Records

When a domain has multiple SPF records, authorization checks cannot tell which one to verify. If you already have an SPF record set up on your business' domain, you may need to merge your SPF records in order to add Sendlane's record.

To merge SPF records, add another "include" mechanism. 


Troubleshooting

Because SPF/DNS record setup done within your domain provider, Sendlane can provide limited technical support. Reach out to your DNS hosting company's support for more assistance.

Deliverability didn't improve after I added an SPF record!

SPF record validation can help establish your sender reputation if you're just starting out, or protect performance that's already strong. If your sender reputation is poor, SPF authentication is unlikely to improve your reputation or boost your delivery.

I use Cloudflare for hosting and can't add SPF records!

Use Cloudflare's guidance for adding TXT records. For more information, see Cloudflare's documentation.