Knowledge Base :: Direct DNS :: DNS Records

What is a TXT record?

A TXT record (or Text record) is a type of DNS (Domain Name System) record. Unlike other DNS records, such as A or CNAME records, which connect a hostname to a server, a TXT record provides information about a domain that can be read by humans or machines. Various services use these TXT records to perform specific actions or gather insights.

Here are some common uses of TXT records:

Domain Authentication Record: Many web services require domain owners to add specific TXT records to their DNS settings to verify ownership. This is common when setting up tools for web analytics, SEO, and other services. A typical example is verifying a domain for Google Apps.

SPF Record (Sender Policy Framework): This record helps prevent email spoofing by specifying which mail servers are authorized to send emails on behalf of your domain. This helps reduce spam or unauthorized emails that appear to come from your domain. If your email is hosted at Directnic, you can find the necessary SPF record by logging into the Advanced Console (or Hosting Console) and clicking the "Email Deliverability" icon under the "Email" header.

DKIM Record (Domain Keys Identified Mail): This record verifies the email's integrity (ensuring it hasn't been tampered with) and confirms it was sent by an authorized sender.

Autodiscover Record: This record is used to automatically configure email clients, such as Microsoft Outlook, with the necessary settings to connect to an email server. It simplifies the process of setting up email accounts by providing configuration details like server addresses, protocols, and port numbers without requiring the user to manually enter them.

Where do I add the TXT Record?

1. Directnic DNS Manager: If your domain's Name Servers are set to Directnic defaults (like ns0.directnic.com), manage your TXT record through the Directnic DNS Manager.
2. Directnic Hosting Console: If you have a Directnic hosting plan and your domain uses Directnic Hosting defaults (like ns1.dnchosting.com), the record has already been added for your convenience. You can find it in the Zone Editor under the "Domains" header.
3. Third-Party Host: If your domain is pointed to a third-party host, manage the TXT record through that provider's DNS manager.