Authenticate Your Domain

Domain authentication helps your organization send emails through DonorDock using your own domain, rather than a generic sender. When your domain is authenticated, Internet Service Providers can confirm that you are a trusted source. This improves deliverability and reduces the chance your emails land in spam or promotions folders.

Why Domain Authentication Matters

• Confirms your identity as a legitimate sender

• Improves inbox placement and overall email deliverability

• Helps protect your sending reputation

• Ensures donors see emails from your organization, not from a third party

How Domain Authentication Works

To authenticate your domain, DonorDock generates three unique CNAME DNS records. These records must be added to your domain’s DNS settings, which are usually found in your domain registrar account such as GoDaddy, Bluehost, Cloudflare, or Squarespace.

After the records are added, DonorDock can verify the connection and complete the authentication.

Step-by-Step: Authenticate Your Domain

1. Locate Your CNAME Records

You should have received three CNAME values generated by DonorDock.

These values include:

• Host or Name

• Value or Points To

2. Add the CNAME Records in Your DNS Provider

Log in to the platform where your domain is managed. Common providers include:

• GoDaddy

• Google Domains

• Cloudflare

• Bluehost

• Squarespace

• DreamHost

Add all three CNAME records exactly as provided.

3. Notify DonorDock for Verification

After you update your DNS:

1. Open a Support Ticket or reply on an existing support ticket

2. Paste the template below or type in the domain that you have completed adding to your DNS

3. Our team will verify the CNAME values are being authenticated correctly and notify you once authentication is complete

What Happens Next

Once your DNS updates are active, which may take up to 24 hours, DonorDock will confirm your records and complete your authentication. We will email you once your domain is fully verified.

Otto Tips

🖋️ Copy Carefully: DNS records must be added exactly as provided. Even a missing period or extra space can prevent verification.

🐚 Keep Existing Records: Add the three new CNAMEs to your DNS. Do not remove any other DNS records your domain already uses.

🕰️ DNS Can Take Time: Many DNS changes update quickly, but some can take up to 24 hours. This is completely normal.

😵‍💫When in Doubt, Ask: If something looks confusing in your DNS provider, send support@donordock.com a screenshot. We are always happy to help!