Knowledgebase

Fixing SPF Issues & Gmail Email Rejections (Firstserv Guide)

Recently, email providers such as Google have strengthened their SPF (Sender Policy Framework) checks, which may result in emails being rejected if your domain is not properly configured.

What is an SPF Record?

An SPF record is a DNS (TXT) record that:

• Specifies which servers are allowed to send emails on behalf of your domain
• Helps prevent spoofing and spam
• Improves email delivery reliability

✅ Without a valid SPF record, emails may be:

• Marked as spam
• Rejected entirely (especially by Gmail)

Why Are Emails Being Rejected?

If your SPF record is missing or incorrect:

• Email servers cannot verify that your server is authorised to send emails
• Gmail and other providers may reject or block your messages

How to Fix the Issue

You’ll need to add or update an SPF record in your domain’s DNS.

Step 1: Access DNS Settings

1. Log in to cPanel
2. Go to Domains → Zone Editor

(If you're unsure how to manage DNS, refer to your Firstserv DNS guide.)

Step 2: Add or Update TXT Record

Create a new TXT (SPF) record with the following value:

v=spf1 +mx +a include:relay.k.io +ip4:YOUR.SERVER.IP ~all

Step 3: Replace Your Server IP

You must update the ip4 value with your server’s IP address.

How to find your IP:

• Log in to cPanel
• Check the right-hand sidebar
• Look for Shared IP Address

Example

If your server IP is:

77.72.1.20

Your SPF record should be:

v=spf1 +mx +a include:relay.k.io +ip4:77.72.1.20 ~all

Step 4: Save Changes

• Save your DNS record
• Allow DNS to propagate

⏱️ This can take up to 24 hours, though changes are often much quicker.

After Adding Your SPF Record

✅ Gmail and other providers should now recognise your server as authorised
✅ Email delivery should return to normal
✅ Bounce-backs related to SPF should stop

Important Notes

• Only one SPF record should exist per domain
• If you already have one, edit it instead of adding a new one
• Incorrect SPF formatting can still cause delivery issues

Summary

• Gmail now enforces stricter SPF validation
• Missing or incorrect SPF records can cause email rejection
• Add/update a TXT record in DNS to authorise your server
• Allow time for DNS propagation after changes

Need Help?

If you're unsure about your SPF record or still experiencing delivery issues, the Firstserv support team is happy to check and assist.