SPF, DKIM, and DMARC are three email authentication methods that show that the domain (eg.
SPF and DKIM are identifiers, which means that they determine whether an email is authentic or not.
However, these methods do not possess the power to make a decision based on the authentication results.
Although outdated, it is the perfect example for developing an understanding of how email authentication works.
SPF records are TXT records stored on the DNS server.
This authentication is known as SPF alignment.
This is verified with the help of a digital signature.
This key is embedded in the email header, known as theDKIM header.
When the email reaches the receiving mail server, it performs the following three tasks.
It uses SPF and DKIM checks as indicators and then makes a decision based on the results.
If the DMARC DNS records exist, they instruct the email server on how to handle the emails.
How are SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records stored?
The Domain Name Server (DNS) stores the records for SPF, DKIM, and DMARC.
Moreover, DKIM and DMARC DNS records must also have special names that help the mail servers identify them.
Not only that, but the values for the tags and mechanisms have different options as well.
Most email providers allow you to expand the email header and look at the minute details.
Note that the envelope header cannot be seen; only the email header.
when you land opened the email header, it can be difficult to find the email authentication information.
It is like finding a needle in a haystack.
We have separate detailed guides on what these 3 email authentication mechanisms are and how to set them up.
Closing words
This article explains the functionalities of SPF, DKIM, and DMARC in email authentication.
Know that many email providers only deploy SPF and think it is sufficient for email security.
At the moment, emails from non-DMARC domains are being sent to spam.
However, soon, they will be rejected entirely.
Therefore, it is a good time to learn about the 3 pillars of email authentication and deploy them.
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source: www.itechtics.com
