What is DNS in email?
What is DNS in email?
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It links domain names to servers, so computers can find each other. For email, your domain's DNS stores a number of records that tell which server receives your mail and which is allowed to send it.
Explanation
Without correct DNS settings, email doesn't arrive or ends up in spam. The most important records for mail are the MX record (where mail goes) and SPF, DKIM and DMARC (for authenticity and security). When you switch providers, you adjust these records. You'll find a complete overview in DNS for email explained.
Example
You connect yourbusiness.be to Mailflux. In the DNS you point the MX record to the mail server and add SPF and DKIM. From that moment on, every sender knows where mail for you@yourbusiness.be should go, and your outgoing mail is recognised as genuine.
Where do you encounter DNS?
You run into DNS as soon as you connect your own domain to your email. In your domain's control panel you then add the records your provider gives you. A small mistake (one space too many or a mistyped value) can already stop mail from arriving, so work carefully. Changes aren't always visible right away either: it can take a few hours before they've propagated worldwide.
Related terms
Want to understand all the records? DNS for email explained lays them out clearly.