What Is a TXT Record?

TXT records are a type of DNS record used to store text-based information about a domain. They are commonly used for domain verification, email authentication and security configuration across modern websites.

This guide explains what TXT records are, how they work and why they are important for website owners, businesses and anyone managing email or DNS settings.

TXT records are often used alongside SPF, DKIM and DMARC to help protect email systems and confirm domain ownership with services such as Google, Microsoft and email providers.

What is a TXT record?

A TXT (Text) record is a DNS entry that allows domain owners to store simple text information within their domain settings. While originally designed for general notes, TXT records are now widely used for verification and security purposes.

When a service needs to confirm that you own a domain, it may ask you to add a TXT record. Once added, the service checks your DNS to confirm the record exists before granting access or enabling features.

What TXT records are used for

TXT records are used in several important areas of website and email management:

• Domain verification: Proves ownership to services like Google Search Console and Microsoft 365.
• Email authentication: Works with SPF, DKIM and DMARC to improve email trust and deliverability.
• Security configuration: Helps prevent domain spoofing and unauthorised use.
• Service integration: Used by third-party tools to validate setup and permissions.

How TXT records work

When a system queries your domain, it checks the DNS records associated with it. If a TXT record exists, the system reads the value and uses it for verification or configuration purposes.

For example, a service may ask you to add a specific TXT record such as a verification string. Once added, it periodically checks your DNS until the record is detected, confirming that you control the domain.

This process is fully automatic and happens in the background whenever services need to validate domain ownership or email setup.

TXT records and email security

One of the most important uses of TXT records is email authentication. They support systems like:

• SPF: Defines which mail servers are allowed to send email for your domain.
• DKIM: Adds a digital signature to verify email integrity.
• DMARC: Sets rules for how failed authentication emails should be handled.

Without correctly configured TXT records, emails are more likely to be marked as spam or rejected by providers such as Gmail, Outlook and Yahoo.

Common TXT record examples

Common mistakes with TXT records

• Adding multiple SPF records instead of one combined record.
• Incorrect formatting or missing quotes in DNS entries.
• Not waiting for DNS propagation after changes.
• Forgetting to remove old or unused verification records.
• Misconfiguring DKIM after changing email providers.

Small DNS mistakes can lead to email delivery issues or failed verification, so changes should always be made carefully and tested afterwards.

How to check TXT records

You can view and manage TXT records through your domain registrar or DNS provider. Most platforms include a DNS management section where records can be added, edited or removed.

After making changes, DNS propagation may take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours. Tools such as DNS lookup services can help confirm whether changes have been applied correctly.

When you should review TXT records

You should check your TXT records when:

• Setting up a new email provider
• Connecting third-party services like Google or Microsoft
• Experiencing email delivery issues
• Migrating your website or domain
• Updating security or authentication settings

Final thoughts

TXT records are a small but essential part of DNS that play a major role in domain verification, email security and service integration.

When configured correctly, they help improve trust, protect your domain from misuse and ensure emails are delivered reliably.

For most website owners, the key is not to overcomplicate things — just ensure your TXT records are correct, up to date and aligned with the services you use.