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What is SPF?

Sender Policy Framework is a security mechanism that informs your prospects that message you sent is safe and you're a trustworthy sender.

IN THIS ARTICLE

1. Why do you want to set it up?
2. How do you set up the SPF record?
3. Common ESP
4. FAQ

1. Why do you want to set it up?

SPF records tell mailboxes which hosts are allowed to send mail from a given domain. You can add SPF records in your DNS settings to easily prove your authenticity and help your email deliverability. So, why would you want to add the SPF record to your domain?

  • To be recognized as a valid sender.
  • To authenticate your domain and protect its good reputation.
  • To avoid anti-spam filters.
  • To score a high open rate and keep the bounce rate low.
  • To turn your response rate into a higher satisfaction rate.

2. How do you set up the SPF record?

The way you set up your SPF record depends on your domain host. Make sure you include all the applications which send emails for you in your SPF record. For example, if you’re using Google Apps (G Suite) to send your messages, you should include the following record:

v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com ~all

Keep in mind:

  • An incorrect record will harm your domain’s reputation and affect the deliverability of your emails.
  • SPF has a limit of 10 DNS record lookups, so formatting your records properly is crucial.
  • It’s very important to set it in only one line.
  • Use “include” statement if you wish to add more values, for example, Sendgrid » or Mailgun »

Sendgrid

v=spf1 include:sendgrid.net ~ all

Mailgun

v=spf1 include:mailgun.org ~ all

Below, you’ll find the guides to the most common email service providers (ESP):

Head over to our blog to learn more about What is DKIM & SPF? And How to Set It Up? »

FAQ

Q: Should I include Woodpecker in my SPF?

There’s no need to include Woodpecker in your SPF. Woodpecker sends emails using your own servers (SMTP.) That means that the emails are going out from your own mailbox, the App only triggers the sending.

Q: Should I include Woodpecker’s IP in my SPF?

You don’t have to include Woodpecker’s IP in your SPF because campaigns are being sent from your mailbox.

Q: I’m not sure how to set up SPF. What should I do?

Please consult your domain host and ask them for help. They know best what your SPF is and how to set it up swiftly on your DNS.

Q: What about DMARC? Do I need to set it up?

Although DMARC isn’t obligatory and there is no need to have it, we advise you to give it a go. DMARC is an extra safety measure that helps to protect your brand reputation. All in all, you want to have your emails delivered directly to your prospects’ inboxes, and DMARC is that one more extra super-power worth to arm your domain with. Read more »

Learn more about Deliverability »

Also, find out how to make your emails hit the inbox – read the guide »
Get more cold emailing know-how. Check out our ebooks »