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SPF (Sender Policy Framework) issues Troubleshooting

N.Makarov
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Introduction

SPF is a crucial authentication mechanism used to prevent email spoofing and phishing attacks. However, misconfigurations or errors in SPF records can lead to delivery issues. This guide will help you troubleshoot common SPF configuration problems and provide steps for correct configuration.

 

Common Reasons for SPF Configuration Failure

Missing SPF Record:

Issue: Absence of SPF records for the sending domain.
Solution: Create a valid SPF record for your domain using the appropriate mechanisms.

 

Syntax Errors:

Issue: Incorrect syntax in SPF records.
Solution: Double-check SPF records for syntax errors and use valid SPF mechanisms.

 

Multiple SPF Records:

Issue: Having multiple SPF records for a domain.
Solution: Maintain a single SPF record per domain to prevent confusion and authentication problems.


Exceeding SPF Lookup Limit:

Issue: Reaching the maximum limit of 10 DNS lookups in SPF processing.
Solution: Minimize DNS lookups by consolidating or simplifying SPF records. Consider using mechanisms like "include" wisely.

 

Incorrect Mechanisms:

Issue: Using incorrect or unnecessary mechanisms in SPF records.
Solution: Review and use valid SPF mechanisms. Common mechanisms include "include," "a," "mx," "ip4," and "all."

 

Steps to Correctly Configure SPF

Create a Single SPF Record:

  • Why: To prevent conflicts and ensure clarity for email receivers.
  • How:
    • Open a text editor.
    • Type v=spf1 include:spf.mailjet.com ~all 
    • Save the file with a .txt extension (e.g., spf_record.txt).
    • Publish this TXT record in your DNS settings.

To receive detailed instructions on creating an SPF record, refer to the following guide.

 

Example of a Single SPF Record:

v=spf1 include:spf.mailjet.com ~all

Example highlighting the issue of multiple SPF records:

v=spf1 include:spf.example1.com ~all
v=spf1 include:spf.mailjet.com ~all


Issue: The above example shows two separate SPF records for the same domain, which can lead to conflicts. To address this, consolidate them into a single record.

Consolidated SPF Record:

v=spf1 include:spf.example1.com include:spf.mailjet.com ~all

 

Check for Syntax Errors:

  • Why: Ensure that the SPF record follows the correct syntax.
  • How:

Optimize SPF Lookup:

  • Why: Minimize DNS lookups to enhance email deliverability.
  • How:
    • Avoid unnecessary mechanisms and includes.
    • Use IP addresses instead of domain names when possible.

Include All Sending Sources:

  • Why: Explicitly list all legitimate sources sending emails on behalf of your domain.
  • How:
    • Identify all sources, such as your email service provider or marketing platforms.
    • Include them in your SPF record using the include: mechanism.

Example:

v=spf1 include:spf.mailjet.com include:aspmx.pardot.com include:mailgun.org include:spf.protection.outlook.com -all

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Regularly Monitor and Update:

  • Why: Ensure that your SPF record stays up-to-date with changes in your email infrastructure.
  • How:
    • Regularly review your SPF record.
    • Update it to include new sources or remove obsolete ones.