---
title: What Are SPF, DKIM and DMARC?
description: "SPF, DKIM and DMARC are DNS-based controls that help receiving servers verify email sent for your domain. ## SPF SPF identifies servers that are allowed to send email for the domain. ## DKIM DKIM adds a cryptographic signature that helps…"
url: "https://vertico.co.zw/docs/what-are-spf-dkim-and-dmarc/"
updated: "2026-07-23"
category: Email
---

# What Are SPF, DKIM and DMARC?

SPF, DKIM and DMARC are DNS-based controls that help receiving servers verify email sent for your domain.

## SPF

SPF identifies servers that are allowed to send email for the domain.

## DKIM

DKIM adds a cryptographic signature that helps prove the message was authorised and not altered in transit.

## DMARC

DMARC tells receivers how to handle messages that fail authentication and provides reporting options.

## Important Setup Rule

 **Important:** A domain should normally have only one SPF record. Combining authorised senders incorrectly can break email authentication.

## Need Help?

If you still need assistance, open a support ticket through your Vertico client account and include the affected domain or email address, a screenshot of the error, and the approximate time the problem occurred. Never send passwords by email or support ticket.