Add an SPF record at united-domains

The SPF value for united-domains

united-domains shows the matching SPF value in the email settings of the control panel. If the domain only sends through the united-domains mail servers that are also listed as MX, the mx mechanism is enough: every server receiving mail for the domain may also send.

v=spf1 mx -all

When other services send as well

A newsletter tool, CRM, ticket system or Microsoft 365 alongside the united-domains mailboxes: every service goes into the same record as its own include. There must be only one TXT record with v=spf1; a second one invalidates both. At most ten DNS lookups are allowed, Google Workspace costs four, Microsoft 365 two, most newsletter tools one or two.

v=spf1 mx include:spf.protection.outlook.com include:spf.brevo.com -all

How to add the SPF record at united-domains

The way to the united-domains DNS editor:

• In the united-domains portfolio click the domain and open "DNS settings".
• Under "Custom DNS records" choose the type, enter subdomain and value.
• Type TXT, host name @ (at some hosts leave empty or pick the domain name), value: the full SPF record starting with v=spf1. If a TXT record with v=spf1 already exists, edit it rather than adding a second one.
• Save; propagation takes a few minutes.

Typical mistakes at united-domains

• Two TXT records with v=spf1: both are ignored. Always edit the existing one.
• The record sits on www or a subdomain instead of the apex domain.
• Quotation marks typed into the value: the DNS editor adds them itself.
• More than ten lookups after adding further services.

Verify and keep an eye on it

After saving, the change at united-domains usually applies within minutes. The checker below queries the authoritative name servers and shows right away whether the SPF record is read correctly. DomainWarn keeps checking the record afterwards and alerts you when it changes or disappears, for example after a migration or one click too many in the DNS editor.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I find the SPF value in the united-domains control panel?

In the email settings of the domain; united-domains shows the recommended value there. If only united-domains sends, that value is enough.

How long until the SPF record takes effect?

At united-domains usually minutes, at the latest once the TTL of the old record has expired. Receivers query the record with every message.