How can I bulk check and clean MX records for a list of domains?
Summary
What email marketers say11Marketer opinions
Email marketer from StackOverflow shares how to use the `dig` command in a bash loop to check MX records for multiple domains listed in a file. Suggests the command `for i in $(cat domains.txt); do dig mx $i; done`.
Email marketer from MXToolbox Support explains that MXToolbox SuperTool can perform MX record lookups for a domain. Suggests that for bulk checking, users can use their API with a paid plan, which enables scripted and automated MX lookups.
Email marketer from Blackbaud Community explains the importance of verifying correct MX records to ensure email deliverability, and suggests using online tools to verify the records. Advocates for contacting their support to resolve.
Email marketer from Super User shares that to check the MX records of multiple domains, you can create a text file of the domains, then use `nslookup` in batch mode to query records for each domain. In addition, they recommend using the command prompt `set type=mx` before proceeding.
Email marketer from Hostinger outlines how to correctly set up a MX record. They explain that there are four key parts to an MX record: Type, Name, Priority, and Value. All of these must be configured correctly for the MX to be valid.
Email marketer from EmailAnalytics shares that MX records show how email messages should be routed. To find a domain's MX record using a command line on Windows or Mac, you'll use the command `nslookup` and `set type=mx` then enter the domain.
Email marketer from DigitalOcean Community provides a tutorial on setting up and verifying MX records. Recommends using `dig` or `nslookup` to query the records and comparing the results with the expected values.
Email marketer from Reddit recommends using online tools like MXToolbox or using command-line tools such as `nslookup` or `dig` for manual checks. For cleaning, suggests identifying invalid or outdated records and removing them via the domain's DNS settings.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains how to use the dig command with a file input (`dig -f domains.txt`) to check MX records and redirect the output to a file, and explains that Matt V's solution is useful because it provides context.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that the `dig` command is the quickest and easiest way to check MX records, and provides the command `dig domain MX +short`. Mentions it can be scripted for bulk checking.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that an MX record is technically not required to receive email, and if there's no MX record, the sender should fall back to the A record. Also suggests checking for null MX records.
What the experts say5Expert opinions
Expert from Email Geeks mentions having a database extension that performs MX lookups on a list of domains, recording MX records, NX domains, and domains that host parked domains.
Expert from Email Geeks shares how they use SQL scripts to clean up MX records, categorizing domains that don't accept mail into dotmx, null MX, and MX for hosted domains.
Expert from Word to the Wise emphasizes the necessity of having valid MX records for email delivery. The staff explains that an incorrect MX record can lead to emails bouncing or being lost. Suggests using DNS lookup tools to verify the MX records are pointing to the correct mail servers. Recommends doing a check whenever making changes to DNS records.
Expert from Email Geeks provides a command line solution for testing MX records in bulk using `dig mx -f .\filename.txt >> outputfile.csv +noall +answer +cmd`, which generates a CSV file with the data. The input `filename.txt` is a list of domains to test.
Expert from Spam Resource explains that when validating MX records, it's important to also check for common mistakes such as having trailing dots, incorrect IP addresses, or misconfigured hostnames. It provides tips for correctly checking syntax.
What the documentation says4Technical articles
Documentation from Google explains the use of their Dig tool in the Admin Toolbox to query DNS records including MX records. It requires manual input of each domain but provides detailed record information.
Documentation from Nslookup explains how to use the command-line tool nslookup to query DNS records including MX records. Specifies that entering `set type=mx` before entering the domain name will allow the user to see what the MX records are for that domain.
Documentation from ISC provides detailed information on using the `dig` command for querying DNS records, including MX records. Explains the various options and flags available for specifying query types and output formats. Specifically highlights the +short option for cleaner output.
Documentation from RFC Editor explains how to deliver emails when no MX records are found, specifying to fall back to the A record for the domain. It also notes the process of resolving issues.