TXT record
A TXT record stores text in DNS. The relevant procedure determines how a service interprets it, for example when checking control of a domain.
What is a TXT record?
A TXT record is a DNS resource record containing text data. RFC1035 describes text as the content of this record type. Its meaning depends on the intended use. A TXT record is not inherently an email rule or proof for a particular provider.
Example: proving control of a domain
In a fictional workflow, a service provider requests a specific text value under a specified DNS name. The company places the value in its responsible DNS zone. The provider can then check whether it finds the expected data there.
The name, content and procedure must match that check. Another TXT record at the same domain does not automatically satisfy it. The DNS record itself does not create user access to the service either.
DNS data that can be queried publicly is unsuitable for storing secrets. Access keys or passwords therefore do not belong in such proof. Whether a verification value can later be removed depends on the relevant procedure.
Sources
Related terms
- Domain Name SystemDNS supplies data about names, such as a web server’s address. Name resolution, the server connection and application behaviour are separate steps.
- DNS zoneA DNS zone is an administrative unit for DNS data. Its boundaries follow delegation; not every subdomain automatically becomes a separate zone.
- MX recordAn MX record names a mail server for a domain. Its preference value orders possible destinations; it confirms neither a mailbox nor delivery.
- Return-PathReturn-Path records the SMTP reverse path in a header. It explains the technical route for error reports, not a person’s identity.
- Envelope-FromEnvelope-From identifies the SMTP sender for transport and error feedback. It must be distinguished from the visible sender address.
- DMARC aggregate reportA DMARC aggregate report summarises a reporting mail system’s domain checks over a period. It helps examine sending sources and misconfigurations.
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