New Outlook Requirements for Email Senders
Email authentication is becoming more critical than ever, and Outlook is tightening its security measures for high-volume senders. If your domain sends over 5,000 emails per day, these new requirements will impact your email deliverability. mySMTP is here to help you navigate these changes and ensure compliance.
What’s Changing?
Starting May 5th, 2025, Outlook will enforce stricter authentication standards for senders exceeding 5,000 daily emails. If your emails don’t meet these requirements, they will first be sent to the Junk folder and later could be rejected entirely.
New Requirements for High-Volume Senders
To improve security and prevent phishing, spoofing, and spam, Outlook now mandates:
- SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Your domain’s DNS must correctly list authorized sending IPs.
- DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Digital signatures must verify that your emails are authentic.
- DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance): At least a p=none policy with alignment to SPF or DKIM (preferably both).
Without these records correctly set up, your emails may not reach your recipients’ inboxes.
Best Practices for Compliance
To ensure optimal deliverability, follow these best practices:
- Use a valid sending address: Ensure your “From” and “Reply-To” addresses are accurate and functional.
- Maintain a clean email list: Remove inactive or invalid addresses to minimize bounces and spam complaints.
- Provide an easy opt-out: A visible and working unsubscribe link is crucial for compliance.
- Avoid misleading email content: Subject lines and headers should accurately reflect your message.
Timeline & Next Steps
Outlook’s enforcement begins May 5, 2025. Here’s what you should do now:
- Audit Your DNS Settings: Verify your SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records.
- Test Your Authentication: Use tools like mySMTP’s email tester to confirm your setup. Test here test.smtp.ai
- Monitor Deliverability: Track open rates, spam complaints, and blacklisting issues.
Why This Matters
Outlook is raising email security standards to protect users and improve inbox safety. By implementing these authentication measures, you not only stay compliant but also enhance your sender reputation, leading to better email deliverability.
For more guidance, check out mySMTP’s resources and tools to ensure your emails continue reaching your audience without interruption.
