Summary
Google Workspace handles DMARC alignment for multiple domains based on how the domains are configured. If a domain is set up as an alias, it typically uses the primary domain's SPF and DKIM. However, for each separate domain, it's crucial to have its own set of DMARC, SPF, and DKIM records. DKIM is particularly important as it directly authenticates the 'From' domain. When DKIM setup fails, it can result in a 'sent via maindomain.com' header. While SPF authenticates the sending server, it can be problematic if the 'Return-Path' doesn't align with the 'From' domain. Therefore, independent authentication using SPF and DKIM for each domain is crucial. Consistent management of the 'From' header is necessary to prevent DMARC failures. Regular monitoring of DMARC reports is also essential to identify and address any alignment issues. Tools like DMARC analyzers and record generators can assist in the correct setup and management of DMARC records.
Key findings
- Alias vs. Separate Domains: DMARC handling differs if domains are aliases or separate entities.
- DKIM Importance: DKIM setup is critical for successful DMARC alignment as it authenticates the 'From' domain.
- SPF Challenges: SPF can present challenges with multiple domains due to 'Return-Path' alignment issues.
- Independent Authentication: Each separate domain should have its own DMARC, SPF, and DKIM records.
- "Sent Via" Header: The 'sent via maindomain.com' header often indicates a DKIM setup failure.
Key considerations
- SPF & DKIM Configuration: Correctly configure both SPF and DKIM for each domain used.
- Monitoring DMARC Reports: Regularly monitor DMARC reports to identify and address any alignment issues.
- Consistent 'From' Header: Maintain consistent 'From' header management to prevent DMARC failures.
- DMARC Tools: Consider using DMARC analyzers and record generators for easier setup and maintenance.
- Signature Matching: Ensure DKIM signature matches the 'From' domain for each sending domain.
What email marketers say
6 marketer opinions
Google Workspace's handling of DMARC alignment for multiple domains hinges on proper SPF and DKIM configuration for each domain. When adding domains as aliases, the primary domain's SPF and DKIM are often used. For separate domains, each must be independently authenticated. Consistent 'From' header management is crucial, and monitoring DMARC reports helps identify alignment issues. Tools like DMARC analyzers and record generators can aid in correct setup and ongoing maintenance.
Key opinions
- Domain Type Matters: How a domain is added (alias vs. separate) affects DMARC alignment in Google Workspace.
- Independent Authentication: Each domain should be independently authenticated with SPF and DKIM.
- DKIM is Crucial: DKIM authentication of the 'From' domain is essential for DMARC to pass.
- Alignment Requirements: DMARC alignment requires either SPF or DKIM to pass and align with the 'From' header domain.
Key considerations
- From Header Management: Maintain consistent 'From' header management to prevent DMARC failures.
- Monitoring: Regularly monitor DMARC reports to identify and address alignment problems.
- SPF and DKIM Setup: Ensure correct SPF and DKIM configuration for each domain to guarantee proper authentication.
- Tool Usage: Utilize DMARC analyzers and record generators to assist in setting up and managing DMARC.
Marketer view
Marketer from Email Geeks confirms that Google Workspace works perfectly with multiple domains, subject to the caveats mentioned previously (likely referring to DKIM setup and domain aliases).
27 Jun 2023 - Email Geeks
Marketer view
Email marketer from StackExchange shares that when you use multiple 'From:' addresses, each domain should be authenticated with its own DKIM signature. They highlight that the 'From:' domain needs to align with either the DKIM domain or the SPF domain for DMARC to pass.
21 Jan 2023 - StackExchange
What the experts say
3 expert opinions
DMARC alignment issues in Google Workspace often stem from DKIM setup failures, leading to a 'sent via maindomain.com' header. SPF can also pose challenges due to its reliance on the 'Return-Path,' which may not align with the 'From' domain, causing DMARC failures. DKIM, which directly authenticates the 'From' domain, is generally preferred. Proper configuration of both SPF and DKIM is crucial for each domain used within Google Workspace to ensure successful DMARC alignment.
Key opinions
- DKIM Failure Indicator: The 'sent via maindomain.com' header indicates a DKIM setup failure.
- SPF Limitations: SPF's reliance on the 'Return-Path' can cause alignment issues with multiple domains.
- DKIM Preference: DKIM is generally preferred for DMARC alignment as it directly authenticates the 'From' domain.
Key considerations
- Correct Configuration: Ensure correct configuration of both SPF and DKIM for each domain.
- DKIM Signature Matching: Verify that the DKIM signature matches the 'From' domain for each domain.
Expert view
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that SPF can be problematic with multiple domains because it checks the 'Return-Path', which may not align with the 'From' domain. DMARC alignment will fail if SPF fails. DKIM is generally preferred for alignment because it directly authenticates the 'From' domain, especially with multiple domains in Google Workspace.
19 Jul 2022 - Word to the Wise
Expert view
Expert from Word to the Wise shares it is important to configure both SPF and DKIM correctly for each domain used within Google Workspace. She states that while SPF authenticates the sending server, DKIM authenticates the content and the 'From' domain, which is crucial for DMARC alignment. She also shares that you should ensure that the DKIM signature matches the 'From' domain for each domain you are sending from.
23 Mar 2024 - Word to the Wise
What the documentation says
3 technical articles
Proper DMARC alignment in Google Workspace, especially with multiple domains, requires each domain to have its own DKIM keys and correctly configured SPF records authorizing Google Workspace. Domain aliases often use the primary domain's DKIM and SPF. Correct SPF configuration including all sending sources and validated DKIM signatures are essential. Monitoring DMARC reports helps identify and resolve alignment issues. Independent authentication using DMARC, SPF, and DKIM records for each domain is crucial to protect against spoofing, with DKIM setup being particularly critical for passing DMARC.
Key findings
- Independent DKIM and SPF: Each domain should have its own DKIM keys and SPF records.
- Domain Aliases: Domain aliases use the primary domain's authentication records.
- SPF Configuration: SPF must include all sending sources.
- DKIM Signature Validation: DKIM signatures must validate for proper DMARC alignment.
- DKIM Critical: DKIM setup is especially critical for passing DMARC.
Key considerations
- Monitor DMARC Reports: Closely monitor DMARC reports to identify and resolve alignment issues.
- Correct SPF Configuration: Ensure SPF is correctly configured to include all sending sources.
Technical article
Documentation from Google Workspace Admin Help explains that to ensure proper DMARC alignment, each domain should have its own DKIM keys set up, and SPF records should be configured to authorize Google Workspace to send emails on behalf of each domain. They also state that if you have multiple domains set up as domain aliases, the primary domain's DKIM and SPF records are used.
14 Jul 2024 - Google Workspace Admin Help
Technical article
Documentation from dmarcian advises that for proper DMARC alignment across multiple domains, particularly in Google Workspace, ensure SPF is correctly configured to include all sending sources and DKIM signatures validate. They advise closely monitoring DMARC reports to identify and resolve any alignment issues, specifically regarding the organizational domain.
17 Nov 2021 - dmarcian
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