SPF Flattening Tools Reviewed:
Which One Is Best For You?


In today's security-focused landscape, email authentication is essential for effective business communication. A key element in this framework is the Sender Policy Framework (SPF), which safeguards against email spoofing. However, SPF records are restricted to a maximum of 10 DNS lookups. Exceeding this limit can disrupt SPF authentication, jeopardizing your domain’s email delivery and reputation.

This is where SPF flattening tools become invaluable. They assist in maintaining compliance with DNS lookup limits by substituting mechanisms that lead to multiple lookups (such as include and a) with direct IP addresses. In this article, we will delve into the concept of SPF flattening, discuss its necessity, and evaluate some of the leading SPF flattening tools currently available, guiding you in selecting the one that best suits your requirements.


Understanding SPF Flattening and Its Importance


What Is SPF Flattening?

SPF flattening refers to the technique of transforming certain mechanisms in your SPF record, which require DNS lookups like include, a, mx, and ptr — into their respective IP addresses. This approach reduces or entirely removes the need for DNS lookups, thereby helping to adhere to the SPF restriction of a maximum of 10 DNS lookups per verification.



spf-flattening



Why You Need an SPF Flattening Tool

In the absence of SPF flattening, intricate email configurations that incorporate several third-party platforms (such as Mailchimp, Salesforce, Google Workspace, and others) may quickly surpass the limit of 10 DNS lookups. When this threshold is breached, SPF authentication can fail — even when all the sending sources are valid — leading to emails being directed to spam folders or outright rejected.

SPF flattening solutions streamline this optimization, delivering a simplified SPF record that remains compliant and ensures your emails continue to reach their intended recipients. Explore here for more insights.


Top SPF Flattening Tools: A Comparative Review


1. EasyDMARC SPF Record Flattener

  • Advantages:

    • User-friendly interface

  • Automated processes for flattening and monitoring

    • Allows delegation of subdomains

    • Provides real-time DNS validation along with SPF record recommendations

  • Disadvantages:

    • Certain functionalities are only available through a subscription plan

  • Ideal For:


2. Mimecast SPF Flattening Tool

  • Advantages:

    • Designed for large organizations with robust capabilities

    • Offers exceptional reliability and backup for DNS

    • Works seamlessly with a comprehensive email security platform

  • Disadvantages:

    • Cannot be used independently; part of the Mimecast service package

    • More expensive than alternative solutions

  • Ideal For:

    • Large businesses that are currently utilizing or thinking about adopting Mimecast for extensive email security.

3. PowerSPF by Proofpoint

  • Advantages:

    • Completely automated with adaptable record handling

    • Monitors and refreshes third-party sender IP addresses in real-time

    • Keeps sub-records to avoid excessive SPF record size

  • Disadvantages:

    • It could be excessive for smaller businesses

    • Needs more extensive integration within the Proofpoint framework

  • Ideal For:

    • Major enterprises with intricate email systems and frequently shifting third-party providers.

4. SPF-Record.com SPF Flattener

  • Advantages:

    • No cost is involved, featuring a straightforward and easy-to-navigate design.

    • Immediate flattening is available through simple copy-paste actions.

    • Displays the count of DNS lookups both before and after the flattening process.

  • Disadvantages:

    • Requires manual updates whenever there are changes to third-party IP addresses.

    • Support and documentation are somewhat lacking.

  • Ideal For:

    • Developers and administrators seeking a cost-free yet efficient manual solution.


spf-flattening-1



5. MxToolbox SPF Flatten Tool

  • Advantages:

    • Recognized and reputable brand in the email tool sector

    • Provides features like diagnostics, lookup counts, and flattening

    • Compatible with additional DNS monitoring capabilities

  • Disadvantages:

    • Automation options are minimal

    • Lacks real-time updates; any modifications to third-party IPs require manual intervention

  • Ideal For:

    • Companies that are currently utilizing MxToolbox for their monitoring and diagnostic needs.


How to Choose the Right SPF Flattening Tool


  • Assess Your Organization's Scale and Complexity: If your business utilizes various platforms for sending emails, such as CRM systems, marketing solutions, and customer support tools, it's advisable to implement a comprehensive automated flattening solution like PowerSPF or EasyDMARC. Conversely, smaller operations may find that a manual tool, such as SPF-Record.com, is adequate for their needs.

  • Consider the Necessity of Automatic Updates: Since third-party senders frequently change their IP addresses, a static SPF record can quickly become obsolete. To reduce upkeep, choose tools that offer automated or dynamic updates.

  • Compatibility with Current Email Security Solutions: If you are already using or considering adopting email security platforms such as Mimecast or Proofpoint, opting for SPF flattening tools that seamlessly integrate with these services can enhance their effectiveness.