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How do I configure DNS records for email domains and ensure proper authentication?

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Written by Partner Training

How to Configure DNS Records for Email Domains and Ensure Proper Authentication

Configuring DNS records for your email domain is an important step to improve email deliverability and ensure your domain is properly authenticated. This guide walks you through adding DNS records, requesting verification from Spark, updating your “send from” settings, and troubleshooting common issues.

Step 1: Add DNS Records to Your Domain Host

Before proceeding, consult your hosting provider (e.g., Wix) to confirm whether DNS changes might impact your website. Hosting providers can offer alternative instructions or handle the changes directly to avoid disruptions.

  1. Log in to your domain host (for example: GoDaddy, Namecheap, Cloudflare).

  2. Open DNS settings (sometimes called “DNS Management” or “Zone Editor”).

  3. Add the DNS records provided by Spark exactly as written.

  • Pay close attention to record names that include underscores (for example: _dmarc for TXT, s1._domainkey for CNAME).

  1. Save your changes.

Platform-Specific Instructions

GoDaddy

  • Log in to your GoDaddy account and navigate to the DNS management section.

  • For each DNS record provided:

    • Set the 'Type' field to the specified type (e.g., CNAME, TXT).

    • Enter the 'Name' field exactly as provided, including any prefixes or underscores.

    • Copy the 'Value' field precisely as given.

  • Save each record after entering the details.

Wix

  • If you are using Wix to host your website, consult Wix before making DNS changes. Wix can handle the DNS configuration for you to ensure compatibility and prevent website disruptions.

Step 2: Contact Spark Support to Complete Verification

After you save the DNS records, reach back out to the Spark Help Desk/Support team so we can verify the records and complete domain authentication on our end.

When you contact Support, include:

  • Your domain name (example: yourbusiness.com)

  • Confirmation that the DNS records have been added

  • Optional (helpful): screenshots of your DNS records in your domain host

Note: DNS changes may take some time to propagate. If verification fails at first, Support may ask you to wait and recheck.

Step 3: Update Email Automation “Send From” Settings

Once Support confirms your domain is authenticated, update your automations to send from the authenticated business email address.

To update email automations in Spark:

  1. Go to Automations.

  2. Open the relevant automation and go to Action Steps.

  3. Edit the email action step.

  4. Under General Settings, set the Send from address to your authenticated business email.

  5. Save your changes.

Step 4: Troubleshoot DNS Record Issues

If authentication fails or Support says records are incorrect:

  1. Compare the DNS records in your domain host against the records provided by Spark.

  2. Confirm:

  • Record names match exactly (including underscores)

  • Correct record types are used (TXT vs CNAME)

  • All required records are present

  1. If your DNS is managed by a different provider than where you bought the domain, make sure you’re editing DNS where the nameservers are managed.

  2. After correcting records, contact Spark Support again to re-verify.

Best Practices for DNS Configuration

  1. Consult Your Hosting Provider: Always check with your hosting provider (e.g., Wix) before making DNS changes.

  2. Double-Check Record Details: Verify that all DNS entries are accurate and complete.

  3. Use Professional Assistance: If unsure, involve your web team or hosting provider to handle DNS configurations.

  4. Monitor Changes: After making changes, monitor your website and email functionality to ensure everything works as expected.

Additional Troubleshooting Scenarios

Website Downtime

  • Changes to DNS records can cause your website to go offline if not handled correctly. To prevent this, always consult your hosting provider or allow them to manage the DNS setup.

Incorrect DNS Entries

  • Ensure that all DNS record details, including prefixes and underscores, are entered exactly as provided. Even minor errors can lead to functionality issues.

FAQs

What happens after I add the DNS records?

After you add and save the records, contact Spark Support so we can verify them and complete authentication. Once confirmed, update your automations to use the authenticated “send from” email.

How long does DNS propagation take?

DNS updates can take a few hours (and sometimes longer). If verification fails at first, waiting and rechecking is often required.

How do I know if the DNS records were added correctly?

Support can confirm whether the records are visible and valid. If there’s an issue, compare your entries against the exact values provided and correct any mismatches.

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