DMARC… the how, why and where

The edict from above

Google, lords of the internet, have issued a new edict… and it’s a good thing. They’ve made it well known by now that there are some changes you need to make to your DNS regarding email settings that will become essential if you expect your email’s to be delivered. It’s critical too if you do any sort of marketing or follow-up with your client base and expect Gmail users to receive what you send.

To the point…

• SPF and DKIM must be in place. Companies that send to Gmail or Yahoo must have SPF and DKIM authentication methods implemented.

• Companies must have a DMARC policy in place. ...

• Messages must pass DMARC alignment. ...

What the heck is all that?

These are all records, that are entered in your DNS settings, that assist mail servers in authenticating your email… help them make sure the email came from you. You simply enter them once, and you’re in the club!

Is this going to be hard to do?

It all depends if you intend on learning how to change your own oil, or work with a garage who does it for you. Yes… there are some rules and protocols… and yes, like so many things online… it can sound pretty confusing.

SPF requires you telling DNS where your email is authorized to come from (it’s the invitation)… DKIM is like a secret code or password that gets you into the party… and DMARC is what tells the guy at the door to do if you don’t have the other two.

What Do I Do Next?

The simple answer… if your email service or DNS is with COOLCOM, just ask us to make sure your records are all in order. Painless… no manuals, lengthy How To’s, videos…

Login to your Client Centre (there’s a link on that page if you’ve lost your access info), go to Account>My Help Desk, and just ask us to check your oil. We’ll make sure everything is topped up and in good order.

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