This guide explains how to customise SPF record in cPanel.
SPF (Sender Policy Framework) records are an important part of email authentication and security. They help prevent spammers and malicious users from sending fraudulent emails using your domain name.
An SPF record specifies which mail servers are authorised to send email on behalf of your domain. Proper SPF configuration improves email deliverability and helps reduce the chances of your emails being marked as spam.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is an SPF Record?
An SPF record is a TXT record added to your domain’s DNS settings.
It tells receiving mail servers which systems are permitted to send emails from your domain.
A properly configured SPF record helps to:
- Improve email delivery rates.
- Reduce phishing and spoofing attempts.
- Protect your domain reputation.
- Prevent unauthorised email usage.
How to Customise SPF Record in cPanel
1. Login to the Domains.co.za Customer Portal using your login credentials.
2. Click Manage Services from the dashboard.
3. Select the hosting service linked to your domain.
4. Click Login to cPanel to access the control panel.
5. Scroll to Email and click Email Deliverability.
6. Locate your domain name and find the SPF record section.
7. Click Manage or Edit next to the SPF record.
8. Add or modify the authorised IP addresses or services permitted to send email from your domain.
9. Review the SPF syntax carefully before saving the changes.
10. Click Save or Update to apply the new SPF configuration.
Common SPF Elements
- v=spf1: Identifies the SPF version.
- ip4: Authorises a specific IPv4 address.
- ip6: Authorises a specific IPv6 address.
- include: Authorises third-party email services.
- ~all: Sets a soft fail policy.
- -all: Sets a hard fail policy.
Additional Information
- Sender Policy Framework (SPF) changes may take several hours to propagate globally.
- A domain should only have one SPF record to avoid validation errors.
- Incorrect SPF records can cause outgoing emails to fail delivery.
- Third-party email providers like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace often need include statements in SPF records.
- SPF works best when combined with DKIM and DMARC authentication.
- Online tools such as MXToolbox can help verify SPF configurations.
- Review SPF records regularly when adding or removing email services.
- Proper email authentication improves trust with receiving mail servers.
Login to Domains.co.za Account
1. Go to the Domains.co.za website Account Login page.
2. Enter your Email and Password and click the Sign In button.
3. You will see the Domains.co.za Dashboard, displaying the Manage Account menu on the left and your Account Information, Account Overview and Open Support Tickets on the right.
