TXT record lookup
TXT records publish text at a DNS name. A domain can have multiple TXT records serving unrelated purposes.
Enter a root domain or subdomain—no protocol or path needed.
Common TXT record uses
- SPF policies beginning with v=spf1.
- DMARC policies at _dmarc.example.com.
- DKIM public keys at a selector under _domainkey.
- Ownership tokens for hosting, search, and SaaS providers.
- Policies such as MTA-STS and service-specific configuration.
How TXT strings are displayed
DNS software may split a long TXT value into multiple quoted character strings. Those strings are parts of one record and are joined when applications read the value.
Several TXT records are allowed at the same name, but protocols can impose their own limits. In particular, publishing multiple SPF policies at the root is invalid.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Is an SPF record different from TXT?
Modern SPF policies are published as TXT records. The older dedicated SPF record type is obsolete.
Can TXT records contain private information?
DNS is public. Do not publish secrets, passwords, private keys, or confidential verification material as TXT records.