1. Introduction to Sending Domains

Sending domains are specific domains used to send your email campaigns. They play a crucial role in email deliverability and brand recognition. By using dedicated sending domains, you can improve your sender reputation and ensure your emails are more likely to reach your subscribers' inboxes.

2. Accessing the Sending Domain Section

To begin adding a sending domain in Mail Enchanter, navigate to the sending domain section within your account settings in the left menu.

3. Adding a New Sending Domain

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Click the "Add New" Button: Start by clicking the "Create New" button in the sending domain section.
  • Enter the Domain Name: Input the domain name you want to use for sending emails. You do not need to add anything else.
  • Click the "Save" Button: After clicking the save botton the form will self populate. You will then need to add the given records into your DNS Zone settings within your webhosting cPanel account.

4. DNS Configuration

After adding the domain name, you need to set up DNS records to verify and authenticate your domain.

Setting Up DNS TXT Records:

  • DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): To add an DKIM record to your DNS settings to specify which mail servers are allowed to send emails on behalf of your domain, login to your cPanel Hosting account and within the Domains section click Zone Editor. Find your domain and Click Manage (on the right side of the page). 
    • Click Add Record:
    • Copy and add the text: mailer._domainkey into the Valid Zone Name field.
    • In the Type dropdown, choose TXT.
    • In the IPv4 Address field, Copy the long record that begins with: "v=DKIM1 and and with ".
      • Please note, you will have to click the "Add Text String To Record" link and add the record where it finished off. (the field only allows a limited number of character so you will need to add the second half of the record in the additional field).
    • Click the Save Record button.
  • SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Add an SPF record to digitally sign your emails, ensuring their authenticity and integrity. Use the same procedure as you did when creating the DKIM record above. Adding the SPF record details from Mail Enchanter. Save the  record.
  • DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance): Add a DMARC record to protect your domain from unauthorized use, such as phishing and spoofing. Again, use the same procedure as you did when creating the DKIM and SPF records above. Adding the DMARC record details from Mail Enchanter. Save the  record.

Proper DNS configuration is essential for improving email deliverability and maintaining a good sender reputation.

You may or may not need to wait to Verify the settings you just added.

5. Verifying the Sending Domain

Once the DNS records are set up, Mail Enchanter will verify your domain. After you have added the DNS records for your domain, please click the Verify DNS records button in Mail Enchanter to verify your domain.

Again, please note that it can take up to 48 hours for DNS changes to propagate. If verification fails now, please try again later.

Verification Process:

  • Mail Enchanter checks the DNS records to ensure they are correctly configured.
  • If the records are correct, click the Verify DNS records button and your domain will be verified.
  • If there are issues, you will be notified to correct them.

Common Verification Issues and Solutions:

  • DNS Propagation Delay: DNS changes can take time to propagate. Wait for a few hours and try again.
  • Incorrect Records: Double-check the records for any typos or errors.

6. Managing Sending Domains

After verifying your domain, you can manage it from the sending domain section.

Managing Your Domains:

  • Viewing Added Domains: See a list of all added sending domains.
  • Editing Domain Details: Update the domain information as/if needed.
  • Deleting a Sending Domain: Remove any outdated or unused domains.

7. Best Practices for Sending Domains

To ensure optimal performance and deliverability, follow these best practices:

  • Regularly Update DNS Records: Keep your DNS records up-to-date to maintain email deliverability.
  • Monitor Domain Reputation: Use tools to monitor the reputation of your sending domains.
  • Ensure Compliance: Make sure your email practices comply with regulations like CAN-SPAM and GDPR.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your sending domains, here are some common solutions:

  • DNS Propagation Issues: Give DNS changes time to propagate.
  • Incorrect DNS Settings: Double-check and correct any errors in your DNS records.
  • Support Resources: Utilize Mail Enchanter’s support resources for additional help.

9. Conclusion

Adding and managing sending domains in Mail Enchanter is essential for improving your email deliverability and maintaining a strong sender reputation. By following the steps and best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure your emails reach your audience effectively and build a trusted email marketing presence.