DKIM, SPF and DMARC - What are they & Why should I care?

5 | Minute Read

Email software is becoming more advanced at filtering out spam emails.

However, without a strong focus on deliverability best practices including implementing DKIM, SPF and DMARC, your emails may continue to land in spam folders.

Your reputation as a sender is very important and is something that marketers should always be paying attention to. Your reputation is dependent on your email deliverability which is made up of a number of aspects including spam traps, filters, blacklists and authentication protocols.

Too much tech jargon? Have we lost you already? Hope not!

In this article we will be breaking down the jargon around DKIM, SPF and DMARC and what it means for you and your email marketing.

What is a DKIM Key?

A DKIM key is a form of authentication that allows an organisation to claim responsibility of an email in a particular way so the recipient can validate the email.

Why should I care about DKIM Records?

If you are sending an email on behalf of an organisation using an automation platform then adding a DKIM key will tell the recipient that the email is actually coming from your organisation and is authentic.

Think of it as a digital signature that you have stamped on your emails, so your recipients know it is coming from you. Having this implemented can greatly reduce your emails landing into the dreaded junk folders.

What is an SPF Record?

SPF (Sender Policy Framework) is another form of authentication that validates an email that has been sent from an authorised server. The policy is published, giving authorisation to mail servers to send using that chosen domain.

Why should I care about SPF Records?

Moving away from the technical jargon it basically means Swift Digital will be sending your emails using your domain and your organisation has given us permission to do that.

Implementing your SPF will not only provide further validation for your DKIM, but it reduces the risk of your emails either not being received or landing in the junk/spam folders again.

What is a DMARC Record?

DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication Reporting and Conformance) compliments both DKIM and SPF. Publishing a DMARC record will allow you to report and gain insight into who is sending emails on behalf of your domain.

Why should I care about DMARC Records?

Although still important to marketers it is more of a benefit to your IT team. Having DMARC implemented means you are able to limit the impact of attacks such as phishing and also prevent spoofing and scams. It is actually a very important authentication piece but unfortunately often gets overlooked.

How to Implement DKIM, SPF and DMARC

Having DKIM, SPF and DMARC implemented can make a great difference to your deliverability, it does wonders for your delivery rate, sending reputation and in turn will likely increase your overall engagement rates.

After all, there isn’t really much point sending emails that land in your subscribers’ junk folders.

Swift Digital works closely with our clients and their IT teams during their onboarding to set up their DKIM, SPF and DMARC to ensure maximum inbox placement, increased security and privacy and brand protection.

Harness the Power of Email Marketing

It’s one thing to commit to a piece of software that has all the functionality and features you desire, but it’s another thing completely to find software that stores your data legally and securely.

Is your business currently using email as part of your marketing strategy? Do you need help with the creation and automation of your emails, or would like to increase engagement?

Here at Swift Digital, we can help you with your email marketing by providing tips on email marketing best practices to make your email campaign a success!

To find out how your business can get the best out of Swift Digital’s platform, contact our team today on 02 9929 700

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