Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ / DirectAdmin

How to keep email out of spam folder when using DirectAdmin?

Keeping email out of the spam folder can be challenging, but with DirectAdmin, you have a number of tools and settings at your disposal to help improve email deliverability. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Ensure Proper DNS Configuration
SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
  • Log in to DirectAdmin.
  • Navigate to the DNS Management area for the domain you re sending email from.
  • Add an SPF record that specifies which mail servers are permitted to send email on behalf of your domain. The record might look something like this:
v=spf1 a mx ip4:your.server.ip -all

DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)

Enable DKIM in DirectAdmin:
  • Go to E-Mail Manager > DKIM Management.
  • Select your domain and enable DKIM. DirectAdmin will generate the necessary DNS records.
DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)

Create a DMARC record in your DNS settings:

_dmarc.example.com. IN TXT v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:[email protected]

2. Set Up Reverse DNS (PTR Record)
  • Ensure that the IP address of your mail server resolves to your domain name. This is usually done through your hosting provider.
3. Check for Blacklisting
  • Ensure your IP address is not on any spam blacklists. You can use tools like MXToolbox to check this. If your IP is blacklisted, follow the delisting procedures for the respective blacklist.
4. Configure Email Headers Properly
  • Ensure your email headers are properly configured. DirectAdmin s default settings typically handle this, but double-checking never hurts.
5. Use a Valid From Address
  • Make sure the From address in your emails is a valid email address on your domain and is properly authenticated.
6. Monitor Email Content
  • Avoid using spammy words and phrases.
  • Ensure your email content is well-structured.
  • Use a proper text-to-image ratio if your emails contain images.
7. Use SSL/TLS for Email Transmission
  • Ensure that your email server uses SSL/TLS to encrypt email transmissions.
8. Implement Rate Limiting and Throttling
  • Configure your mail server to limit the rate at which it sends emails to avoid being flagged as spam due to sending too many emails in a short period.
9. Maintain a Clean Mailing List
  • Regularly clean your email list to remove inactive or invalid email addresses.
  • Use double opt-in for new subscribers to ensure they want to receive your emails.
10. Monitor Spam Complaints
  • Pay attention to any spam complaints and take action to address the causes. Use feedback loops if available from major email providers.