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How to add an MX record to a subdomain when CNAMEs are used for email sending verification?

Summary

When using CNAME records for email sending verification, adding an MX record to a subdomain presents a common challenge, particularly for compliance with certification bodies like ReturnPath. The primary concern is navigating DNS best practices, which generally advise against placing other record types (like MX) on a hostname that also has a CNAME record. However, the need for an MX record on a sending subdomain remains crucial for proper email flow and deliverability, enabling the subdomain to receive bounce messages and replies.

What email marketers say

Email marketers often face practical challenges when configuring DNS for email sending, especially when using CNAMEs for verification. The key is balancing technical requirements from certification bodies with the realities of DNS standards and ESP automation. While the ideal DNS setup avoids CNAMEs and other records on the same hostname, real-world scenarios sometimes require workarounds or careful consideration of how ESPs manage subdomains.

Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks indicates that ReturnPath generally requires an MX record for certification, and if the CNAME setup includes MX details, there should not be an issue. They specifically look for an MX record result for the subdomain using tools like MXToolbox.

17 Jul 2019 - Email Geeks

Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks advises confirming whether CNAME records automate MX records. They note that many companies offering CNAME records for subdomains automatically set up SPF, MX, and other DNS entries for the customer.

17 Jul 2019 - Email Geeks

What the experts say

DNS experts underscore that while CNAMEs are essential for certain functionalities, they come with strict rules regarding coexistence with other record types. The fundamental principle that any sending domain needs an MX record for proper mail flow is highlighted, distinct from specific verification needs. They also differentiate between using CNAMEs for domain ownership verification and for actual mail delivery, clarifying that these are separate concerns.

Expert view

Expert from Email Geeks states that the specific needs will depend on ReturnPath's requirements. They emphasize that you cannot reliably have a CNAME and any other record (like MX) with the same hostname (left-hand side) and expect DNS to work correctly, so this should be avoided.

17 Jul 2019 - Email Geeks

Expert view

Expert from Email Geeks cautions that an MX record pointing at a CNAME (where the CNAME then resolves to an IP) is not ideal practice and likely violates some RFCs, though it often still functions in many scenarios.

17 Jul 2019 - Email Geeks

What the documentation says

Official DNS documentation and standards, particularly RFCs, provide the foundational rules for how different record types interact. While some real-world implementations might deviate or introduce workarounds, the core principles regarding CNAME co-existence with other records are clear. Documentation also stresses the importance of an MX record for any domain expected to receive mail, including those primarily used for sending.

Technical article

Amazon Web Services (AWS) documentation describes issues when establishing custom MAIL FROM subdomains with TXT and MX records in GoDaddy, particularly if a CNAME record is already in place. This indicates a common conflict between CNAMEs and other record types.

05 Mar 2024 - repost.aws

Technical article

AWS documentation also details challenges encountered when trying to add an MX record for a subdomain like 'email.miles.co.uk' in Route53, specifically noting an error that only one MX record is allowed per domain. This highlights complexities in managing multiple email services on subdomains.

10 Apr 2024 - repost.aws

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    How to add an MX record to a subdomain when CNAMEs are used for email sending verification? - Technical - Email deliverability - Knowledge base - Suped