Navigating Google & Yahoo's 2024 Email Guidelines

In February 2024, Google and Yahoo implemented new email authentication requirements that affect all email senders. Here's what you need to know and how ImprovMX helps you stay compliant.

What changed

Google and Yahoo now require SPF and DKIM authentication for all senders
Bulk senders (5,000+ messages/day) additionally need DMARC
Easy one-click unsubscribe headers are required for marketing emails

How ImprovMX helps

ImprovMX has always required proper SPF records for forwarding. With our SMTP service, DKIM signing is automatic. We provide clear guidance for setting up DMARC.

SPF

Already configured if you're using ImprovMX. Your SPF record (v=spf1 include:spf.improvmx.com ~all) covers forwarded emails.

DKIM

When using ImprovMX SMTP, emails are automatically DKIM-signed. Add the provided DKIM CNAME records to your DNS for verification.

DMARC

Add a DMARC record to your DNS. Start with p=none for monitoring, then move to p=quarantine or p=reject as you gain confidence.

Example:

_dmarc.yourdomain.com TXT "v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:dmarc@yourdomain.com"

What to do now

Check your DNS records in the ImprovMX dashboard
Add any missing authentication records
Monitor DMARC reports to ensure everything is working correctly