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Set DKIM: verify DNS and actual message signing

Publish DKIM records and verify actual message signing, selectors, public keys and header results.

By nlnamen.nl editorial team2 min read

Reviewed and updated:

Set DKIM: verify DNS and actual message signing: overview showing Public key, Sign message, Verify signature

DKIM signs email and lets receivers verify it using DNS information. Publishing a record alone may not activate signing at the provider.

Use the provider’s selector

Use the provider’s selector and exact TXT or CNAME instructions. Check automatic domain suffixing. Public keys belong in DNS; private keys do not.

Enable signing at the sender

Some services require a separate activation after DNS verification. Send a new message and confirm it uses the intended selector. Existing messages are not signed retroactively.

Set DKIM: verify DNS and actual message signing: workflow showing Public key, Sign message, Verify signature
Public key → Sign message → Verify signature. Illustration: nlnamen.nl editorial team.

Review the result with DMARC

Inspect DKIM pass and its signing domain, then check DMARC alignment. Different services can legitimately have distinct selectors.

Your practical checklist

  • Copy the exact selector.
  • Publish only public instructions.
  • Enable provider-side signing.
  • Inspect a newly sent message.
In practice
A published key does not sign mail while signing remains disabled at the provider.

Sources and further reading

Registration rules and provider functions can change. Check the current requirements for your domain before ordering or changing services.

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