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MTA-STS
The modern handbook on MTA-STS
Learn how policy files and TLS reporting help protect mail delivery between servers.
By
Michael Ko & Matthew Whittaker
12 featured articles
86 min read
Updated 29 Apr 2026
Make mail servers
use encrypted
delivery paths.
Suped
The modern handbook on
MTA-STS
Foundation
1
Does MTA-STS apply to inbound or outbound mail?
Learn how MTA-STS protects both inbound and outbound email, enhancing security by enforcing TLS for mail transfers. Understand its dual role.
7 min read
2
Does MTA-STS require DNSSEC for policy discovery?
Discover if MTA-STS requires DNSSEC for policy discovery. Learn how MTA-STS works to secure email transport without DNSSEC, and its relationship with DMARC.
8 min read
3
What are MTA-STS reports and why am I getting them from Google?
Learn what MTA-STS reports are, why Google sends them, and how to interpret these critical reports for improving your email security and deliverability. Understand how MTA-STS and TLS-RPT work together to enforce encrypted email transport and protect against attacks.
7 min read
Policy file setup
4
What is the format of the MTA-STS policy file?
Learn the essential format of the MTA-STS policy file, its core components, hosting requirements, and how to ensure proper configuration for secure email delivery.
5 min read
5
What is the directory path for the MTA-STS policy file?
Discover the exact directory path for your MTA-STS policy file, its hosting requirements, and how this setup enhances email security.
7 min read
6
What is the 'mx' field in an MTA-STS policy used for?
Learn about the 'mx' field in MTA-STS policies, its crucial role in securing email delivery, and how it protects against man-in-the-middle attacks.
7 min read
Rollout modes
7
What is the 'none' mode in MTA-STS?
Discover what the 'none' mode in MTA-STS is, how it affects email security, and when to use it for managing your domain's email transport layer security policy.
6 min read
8
What is the 'testing' mode in MTA-STS?
Learn what 'testing' mode in MTA-STS is, how it enables safe monitoring of email security policies, and its role in a secure email deployment strategy.
6 min read
9
What is the 'enforce' mode in MTA-STS?
Learn about MTA-STS 'enforce' mode, its role in secure email transport, and how it protects against downgrade attacks and man-in-the-middle threats.
7 min read
TLS troubleshooting
10
Why am I seeing Google STARTTLS errors and reduced send rates?
Learn why you might be seeing Google STARTTLS errors and reduced email send rates. Explore common causes, troubleshooting steps, and how to maintain optimal email deliverability.
8 min read
11
Why am I getting TLS errors when sending to Gmail?
Discover common causes and effective solutions for TLS errors when sending emails to Gmail, ensuring secure and reliable email delivery.
9 min read
12
What causes SSL/TLS key size errors in email SMTP transactions?
Discover what causes SSL/TLS key size errors in email SMTP transactions, their impact on deliverability, and how to troubleshoot and prevent them for secure email communication.
9 min read
On this page
Foundation
Policy file setup
Rollout modes
TLS troubleshooting
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DMARC FAQs
Answers to common questions about DMARC setup, monitoring, and enforcement.
What is MTA-STS?
Does MTA-STS protect inbound or outbound mail?
What records does MTA-STS need?
Should I start MTA-STS in testing mode?
What happens if my MTA-STS policy is wrong?
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