DNS MX Records Explained: Routing Incoming Business Email

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

1. 1

   Step 1: MX means mail exchange

   0:18

   The record helps route messages towards the domain mail service.

   On-screen labels: Recipient domain; Mail exchange record; Incoming mail route.

2. 2

   Step 2: The value names a mail server

   0:30

   Use the destination supplied by the business email provider.

   On-screen labels: Provider hostname; Mail destination; Exact supplied value.

3. 3

   Step 3: Priority controls preference

   0:42

   A lower preference number is tried ahead of a higher number.

   On-screen labels: Preference number; Preferred destination; Alternative destination.

4. 4

   Step 4: Website hosting is separate

   0:54

   Moving the website does not necessarily mean moving the mailbox service.

   On-screen labels: Website host; Business mail provider; Separate services.

5. 5

   Step 5: Authentication has another role

   1:06

   SPF, DKIM and DMARC concern authentication alongside the mail route.

   On-screen labels: Incoming route; Sender authentication; Related DNS settings.

6. 6

   Step 6: Test real incoming delivery

   1:18

   After a planned change, confirm mail reaches the intended mailbox.

   On-screen labels: External test message; Correct mailbox; Provider delivery evidence.

Common questions

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