How to Create a DKIM Record?

DKIM record is essential for securing & authenticating your email communication. DKIM, which stands for DomainKeys Identified Mail, is an email authentication method for detecting email spoofing & phishing attempts. Today, we will learn what DKIM is and answer the most frequently asked question, i.e., how to create a DKIM record.

What is DKIM?

DKIM is a method used to validate the authenticity of an email message by enabling an organization to sign its email messages with a digital signature. This signature is added to the email’s header and can be verified by the recipient’s email server. By verifying the signature, the recipient can confirm that the email originated from the claimed sender and that its contents were not altered during transit. And that’s how DKIM eliminates email-related risks, and that’s why you should learn how to create a DKIM record.

DKIM Tags

DKIM relies on specific tags within the email’s header to function effectively. These tags include:

v=: This tag tells which DKIM version is being used. Currently, DKIM version 1 (v=1) is the most widely adopted.

a=: The “a” tag denotes the algorithm used for generating the signature. General algorithms include rsa-sha256 and rsa-sha1.

d=: This tag identifies the domain name associated with the DKIM signature.

s=: The “s” tag represents the selector – a subdomain used to locate the public key in DNS.

c=: This tag defines the canonicalization algorithm applied while preparing the message for signing. Canonicalization ensures that the message is consistent before signing, regardless of variations in formatting.

q=: The “q” tag specifies the query method used to retrieve the public key from DNS. General methods include “dns/txt” and “dns/x509”.

How Does DKIM Work?

When an organization implements DKIM for its email domain, it generates a public-private key pair. The private key is kept secure within the organization’s infrastructure – while the public key is published in the domain’s DNS records.

1. Signing the Email

When an authorized user sends an email, the sending server generates a unique cryptographic signature using the private key. This signature is included in the email’s header.

2. Verification by the Recipient

Upon receiving the email, the recipient’s mail server retrieves the sender’s public key from DNS using the information provided in the DKIM signature (domain & selector). It then uses this public key to verify the authenticity of the signature.

3. Validation Process

The recipient’s email server performs various checks during the validation process. It verifies the DKIM signature’s integrity, ensuring the email content has not been tampered with during transit. Furthermore, it confirms that the domain listed in the DKIM signature matches the sender’s domain.

4. Handling the Email

Based on the DKIM validation results, the recipient’s email server determines how to handle the email. The email can be delivered to the recipient’s inbox if the signature is valid. However, the email may be flagged as suspicious or sent to the spam folder if the signature fails verification or is missing.

How to Create a DKIM Record?

Making a DKIM record involves several steps to ensure your emails are signed & authenticated. Below is given how to create a DKIM record – follow the steps.

Steps to Help You Set up DKIM for Your Domain

1. Generate a Public-Private Key Pair

The first step in creating a DKIM record is to generate a public-private key pair. This can typically be done using cryptographic software or tools provided by your email server provider. The private key will be used to sign outgoing email messages – while the public key will be published in your domain’s DNS records for verification.

2. Configure DKIM Settings in Your Email Server

Access your email server’s administration panel and navigate to the DKIM settings. Here, you need to enter the domain name associated with your DKIM signature (d=) and choose a selector (s=) to identify the same key pair used for signing.

3. Generate the DKIM Signature

Once the DKIM settings are configured, your email server will automatically generate a DKIM signature for outgoing emails. This signature will be added to the email’s header, along with the necessary DKIM tags, such as the version (v=), algorithm (a=), and canonicalization method (c=).

4. Publish the Public Key in DNS

After generating the key pair and DKIM signature, the next step is to publish the public key in your domain’s DNS records. This is typically done by adding a TXT record with the selector and public-key information provided by your email server. The TXT record should be named using the selector followed by ._domainkey.yourdomain.com.

5. Test DKIM Configuration

Before fully implementing DKIM for all outgoing email messages, it’s essential to test the DKIM configuration to ensure everything is set up correctly. Many email service providers like Leasepacket offer DKIM testing tools or services that allow you to send test emails and verify the DKIM signature’s validity.

6. Monitor DKIM Performance

Once DKIM is configured & operational, it’s crucial to monitor its performance regularly. Keep an eye on DKIM validation results and any changes or updates to your domain’s DNS records. Monitoring DKIM performance can help detect and address any issues or anomalies that may arise.

Conclusion

Using DKIM for your domain is crucial in enhancing email security & authenticity. Creating a DKIM record and configuring your email server to sign outgoing messages can help prevent email attacks and build trust with your email recipients. Remember to follow best practices when generating key pairs, configuring DKIM settings, and publishing public keys in DNS. Regular testing & monitoring of DKIM performance will ensure your email communication remains secure & reliable. If you need help with DKIM – you can connect with top server providers like Leasepacket.

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