DNS · TXT
TXT Record Lookup
Look up the TXT records for any domain and instantly spot SPF policies, DMARC rules, and domain ownership verification records.
Overview
What is a TXT record?
Think of a TXT record as a digital sticky note attached to your domain name.
While other DNS records tell the internet where to send web traffic or email, a TXT (Text) record just holds information. Any outside computer or service can read it to verify something about your domain — which makes it perfect for proving you own a website or setting up email security rules.
Common uses for TXT records
The modern internet relies on TXT records for two main jobs.
Email security
To stop scammers from sending fake emails pretending to be you, major email providers require security rules:
- SPF: lists who is allowed to send email for you.
- DMARC: tells servers what to do with fake emails.
Domain verification
Before a service like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 lets you manage a domain, they need to confirm you own it.
They give you a random code to add as a TXT record. Because only the real owner can edit DNS settings, this safely proves your identity.
Trying to verify your domain?
Setting up Google Workspace, Search Console, or Microsoft 365 means adding a specific TXT record to your DNS settings. Changes can take a few minutes to appear in the lookup above.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
What is a TXT record?
A TXT (Text) record is a type of DNS record that holds text information for outside sources to read. It does not direct web traffic. Instead, it provides information about your domain to other computers, usually for security or verification purposes.
Can a domain have multiple TXT records?
Yes. It is very common for a single domain to have multiple TXT records. For example, you might have one TXT record for your SPF email policy, another for your DMARC policy, and a third to prove you own the domain to Google.
What does a TXT record look like?
A TXT record is usually a simple string of text. For example, an SPF record looks like this: 'v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com ~all'. A Google verification record looks like this: 'google-site-verification=AbC123XYZ'.
How long does a TXT record take to update?
Like all DNS changes, a new TXT record can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours to update across the internet. This depends on your domain's TTL (Time to Live) settings. Lowering your TTL before making a change speeds up the process.
What is an SPF record?
SPF stands for Sender Policy Framework. It is a specific type of TXT record that lists all the IP addresses and servers that are officially allowed to send emails using your domain name. It is crucial for stopping spam and phishing.
Email setup
Check your full email DNS setup
The Email Grader reviews SPF, DKIM, and DMARC together and flags deliverability issues.