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Authenticating Your Domain Email Address

Ensure your emails reach inboxes by authenticating your domain with DKIM, SPF, and DMARC to meet new 2024 sender requirements.

 

Why This Feature Matters

 

 

As of February 2024, Gmail and Yahoo now require enhanced authentication for high-volume senders. Taking these steps helps you:

 

  • Avoid spam filters and bouncebacks

  • Protect your domain from spoofing and abuse

  • Comply with updated email sender requirements

  • Maintain a strong sender reputation and improve open rates

 

 

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

 

 

What’s Changing?

 

 

Email platforms like Gmail now require domain email authentication for senders sending 5,000+ messages daily. Key requirements include:

 

  • DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)

     

    • Authenticates your domain as the true sender.

    • Prevents spoofing and improves trust.

    • Required for Gmail/Yahoo compliance.

     

  • SPF (Sender Policy Framework)

     

    • Identifies which servers are allowed to send email on your behalf.

    • Required for senders over 5,000 messages/day.

     

  • DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)

     

    • Protects against spoofing by enforcing DKIM/SPF rules.

    • Required for Gmail/Yahoo compliance.

     

 

 

 

 

Authenticating Google Domain Email Addresses

 

 

If you use Google Workspace (Gmail/GSuite):

 

 

 

 

Authenticating via Mandrill or SendGrid

 

 

If you’re using Mandrill or SendGrid for sending emails:

 

 

 

 

Authenticating Office365 Domain Email Addresses

 

 

If you use Office365:

 

  • Microsoft automatically manages SPF unless your account is with a 3rd party like GoDaddy.

  • If you use GoDaddy, generate a DKIM record manually:

     

     

 

 

If you’re unsure about your current setup, contact our Support Team at Support@SierraInteractive.com for help verifying your records.

 

 

 

Best Practices for Deliverability

 

 

  • Enable Easy Unsubscription: Make opt-out options clear and accessible.

  • Send Only Wanted Emails: Keep spam complaint rates below 0.1%.

  • Monitor Marketing Lists: Remove or suppress leads who don’t open/click emails.

  • Optimize Open Rates: Reduce frequency for low-engagement contacts and focus on active leads.

 

 

 

 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

 

 

  • Spam complaints? Check SPF/DKIM/DMARC setup and reduce email frequency to disengaged contacts.

  • Low open rates? Use segmentation and avoid over-emailing.

  • Bouncebacks? Confirm DNS records are properly published for your domain.

 

 

 

 

FAQs

 

 

Is this required even if I don’t send 5,000 emails a day?

Technically no, but email authentication is still recommended for all senders to improve deliverability.

 

What if I use a third-party sender like SendGrid?

You must authenticate your domain with that provider using DKIM/SPF/DMARC.

 

Can Sierra help with configuration?

Yes! Our support team is happy to walk you through the process.