What DKIM is, in plain English
DKIM is a cryptographic signature added to outgoing mail. Receivers verify that signature using a public key
published in DNS at selector._domainkey.yourdomain.com.
If the key is missing, published under the wrong hostname, or damaged by the DNS UI, the receiver cannot verify it. The result is often: lower inbox placement, more spam placement, and DMARC failures even when SPF looks fine.
How to pick the right selector
- Common selectors:
google,selector1,selector2,s1,s2,fm1. - Best method: open a delivered email → find
DKIM-Signature:→ copy thes=value. - If you’re using an ESP, the selector is defined in that ESP’s DKIM setup screen.
What to do if DKIM is missing
- Enable DKIM in your ESP (Google Workspace / Microsoft 365 / Brevo / SendGrid / Mailgun / SES).
- Publish the DKIM TXT/CNAME exactly as provided.
- Re-check here, then confirm alignment with DMARC Analyzer or the full checker.