6 Best DKIM Record Generators (2024)

Email security has become a paramount concern in today’s digital landscape. With the rise of cyber threats, organizations and individuals need robust measures to safeguard their emails from spoofing and unauthorized access. DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) is one such essential tool that helps authenticate the origin and integrity of emails. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of DKIM, the best practices for creating DKIM records, how to generate DKIM records for your domain, and the common mistakes to avoid in the process.

What is DKIM?

DKIM, which stands for DomainKeys Identified Mail, is a widely-used email authentication method. It allows the sender’s domain to digitally sign outbound emails with a cryptographic signature. When the recipient’s email server receives the email, it verifies the signature by checking the corresponding DKIM record in the sender’s domain’s DNS. If the signature is valid, it ensures that the email has not been tampered with during transit and that it genuinely originates from the claimed domain.

DKIM plays a crucial role in preventing email spoofing and phishing attacks, thereby enhancing email security and ensuring the authenticity of communications.

DKIM Record Generators

If you are in need of DKIM record generators, you’re in luck! There are several excellent options available that can quickly generate DKIM records for your domain:

EasyDMARC: This user-friendly platform offers a simple interface where you can enter your domain, add a selector name, and choose the key length between 1024, 2048, and 4096 bits. With just a click of the “Generate” button, you’ll have your DKIM records ready within seconds.
PowerDMARC: For a straightforward DKIM record generation experience, PowerDMARC is a go-to choice. All you need to do is enter your domain name and select the key size in bits between 1028 and 2048. Click on “Create Keys,” and the platform will generate both public and private keys for you.
DMARCLY: This website provides a free DKIM record generator tool that requires only your domain name and key selector value. Along with the DKIM record, it also generates the necessary private key that you will need to enter.
SocketLabs: If you’re looking for customization options, SocketLabs is the place to go. It allows users to generate public/private domain key pairs of 1024 bits and specify the key length. The platform even provides options to escape and split records before generating the DKIM record.
ZeroBounce: For a quick and easy solution, ZeroBounce offers a free DKIM generator that allows you to create unique public and private DKIM records for email encryption. Just provide your email domain name and a DKIM, and you’re good to go.
DuoCircle: If security is your priority, DuoCircle’s DKIM generator can help you generate DKIM public and private keys securely and cryptographically sign emails. Domain administrators can use this generator to create keys and publish a DKIM signature for their domains.

These DKIM record generators offer a seamless and efficient way to secure your domain’s email communication.

Best Practices for Creating a DKIM Record

Creating a DKIM record requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices to ensure its effectiveness. Here are some essential best practices to consider:

Key Length: The key length is a critical attribute when configuring DKIM. It is recommended to use a key length of 1024 bits or 2048 bits. A longer key length provides increased complexity, making it significantly harder for threat actors to break the key. In contrast, key lengths below 512 bits are more vulnerable to attacks.
Key Rotation: Cryptographic best practices dictate regular key rotation to prevent potential compromise over time. It is recommended to rotate your DKIM keys at least every six months. This process involves generating a new DKIM key and updating the corresponding DNS record.
Unique Selector: Ensure that each DKIM record uses a unique selector name. Using the same selector name for multiple domains can cause issues with email authentication.
DNS Record: After generating the DKIM record, add it to your domain’s DNS. The DNS record should contain the public key, domain name, and selector name. This step is crucial for the proper functioning of DKIM authentication.
All Emails are DKIM Signed: To maximize the benefits of DKIM, ensure that all emails sent from your domain are DKIM signed. This means that each outgoing email should have a DKIM signature to enhance email security.
Test and Monitor: After setting up the DKIM record, it is essential to test and monitor its functionality. Use DKIM testing tools like DMARC Analyzer, EasyDMARC, or PowerDMARC to verify that your DKIM record is correctly configured and authenticating emails.

By following these best practices, you can leverage DKIM effectively to bolster your domain’s email authentication.

How to Generate a DKIM Record for Your Domain

Now that you understand the best practices for creating a DKIM record let’s walk through the process of generating a DKIM record for your domain:

Generate the DKIM Keys: Start by using a DKIM key generator to create your DKIM keys. After generating the keys, ensure that you save the private key in a secure location. The public key will be used in your DNS record.
Create the DKIM Record: The DKIM record is a text record that must be added to your domain’s DNS. The record contains the public key, the selector, and other relevant information. You can find the correct syntax for the DKIM record on the official DKIM website or your DKIM generator’s documentation.
Add the DKIM Record to Your DNS: Once you have created the DKIM record, proceed to add it to your domain’s DNS. This can typically be done through your DNS provider’s website or using a DNS management tool.

Additional Tips for Generating a DKIM Record:

Use a Strong Key Length: While 1024 bits is the standard, consider using a longer key length, such as 2048 bits, for added security if your DNS provider supports it.
Use a Unique Selector: Ensure that each DKIM key has its unique selector name to avoid conflicts and ensure smooth email authentication.
Test the DKIM Record: After adding the DKIM record to your DNS, test it using a DKIM testing tool to ensure that it is working correctly and authenticating your emails.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully generate a DKIM record for your domain and enhance your email authentication.

Recommended Key Length for a DKIM Record

The recommended key length for a DKIM record is typically 1024 bits or 2048 bits. The key length is a crucial factor in the security of your DKIM implementation. A longer key length increases the complexity of the cryptographic signature, making it more challenging for malicious actors to break the encryption.

While 1024 bits is considered the standard and offers a reasonable level of security, using a longer key length, such as 2048 bits, provides an additional layer of protection. However, it’s essential to check with your DNS provider to ensure that they support the desired key length and can accommodate the necessary TXT record length.

How Often Should DKIM Keys Be Rotated?

DKIM keys should be rotated periodically to maintain the security of your email authentication. Regular key rotation prevents threat actors from having prolonged periods to attempt attacks on the same key.

The frequency of DKIM key rotation is subject to varying recommendations, but the consensus suggests the following:

M3AAWG: The Messaging, Malware, and Mobile Anti-Abuse Working Group recommends rotating DKIM keys at least every six months.
Threatcop: It is advised to rotate DKIM keys three to four times a year.
O365info: For best practices, it is recommended to rotate DKIM keys every six months. However, in case of a security breach, immediate key rotation is essential.
PowerDMARC: While the exact period for DKIM key rotation is not critical, the process itself is. The recommendation is to rotate keys every few months.
OnDMARC Help Center: For reduced risk, DKIM keys should be rotated at least once per year.
Proofpoint Communities: The recommended interval for DKIM key rotation is every six months.

In summary, rotating DKIM keys every six months to a year aligns with industry best practices. However, immediate rotation is advised if a security breach is detected.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a DKIM Record

While DKIM is a powerful tool for email authentication, it is essential to avoid common mistakes during its creation to ensure its effectiveness. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

Syntax Errors: DKIM records are strings of text, and even a minor syntax error can lead to misconfiguration. To avoid syntax errors, it is best to use a trusted DKIM record generator.
Multiple DKIM Signatures: Including multiple DKIM signatures in an email header can cause authentication issues. Ensure that only one DKIM signature is present in each email header.
Incorrect DNS Records: Incorrect or incomplete DNS records can disrupt the functionality of DKIM authentication. Ensure that the DKIM-Signature record in the DNS is accurately formatted and includes all necessary details.
Invalid Signature: An invalid DKIM signature can lead to DKIM failure. Always check the validity of the signature before sending the email.
Key Management: Inadequate management of DKIM keys can compromise email authentication. Handle DKIM keys with care, and keep them updated as needed.
Key Length: Using a key length below 1024 bits can render the DKIM signature ineffective. Always use a key length of at least 1024 bits for a secure implementation.
Selector Name: Using the same selector name for multiple domains can cause conflicts in email authentication. Use unique selector names for each DKIM record.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your DKIM record is correctly configured, effectively authenticates your emails, and contributes to robust email security.

Conclusion

DKIM plays a pivotal role in safeguarding email communications from spoofing and phishing attacks. By generating a DKIM record for your domain and following best practices, you can enhance email authentication and ensure the authenticity and integrity of your emails. Remember to choose a reliable DKIM record generator and periodically rotate your DKIM keys to maintain the highest level of security. Avoiding common mistakes during the DKIM creation process will further bolster your email authentication efforts.

Take the necessary steps to implement DKIM effectively, and rest assured that your domain’s emails are protected with an added layer of security. Whether you are a business owner, a domain administrator, or an individual user, DKIM is a valuable tool in your arsenal for email authentication and secure communication.