Klaviyo & Email
SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
Quick definition
A DNS record that authorizes which servers are allowed to send email on behalf of your domain. Required for deliverability.
What it actually means
SPF is one of three email authentication standards (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) that inbox providers check before delivering email. SPF is set via a TXT DNS record listing authorized sending servers (Klaviyo, transactional providers, etc). Missing or misconfigured SPF triggers spam folder placement at Gmail, Yahoo, and Apple Mail. Klaviyo provides exact SPF instructions during account setup — failure to complete the DNS step is one of the most common deliverability bottlenecks on new accounts.
Related terms
Email Deliverability
The probability that your email reaches the inbox instead of spam or the promotions tab. Driven by sender reputation, authentication, and engagement.
DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
A cryptographic signature added to email headers that proves the message was sent by an authorized server. Required for deliverability.
DMARC
A DNS policy telling inbox providers what to do if a message fails SPF or DKIM checks (reject, quarantine, monitor).