Google Postmaster is a free tool from Google that reveals how Gmail rates your domain’s reputation—categorized as Good, Medium, Low, or Bad. It provides a clear answer to the question, "How is my domain reputation with Gmail?" Since Gmail often comprises a large portion of mailing lists, especially for U.S.-based senders, this insight offers a critical view of your domain's overall reputation.
Additionally, Google Postmaster provides data on SPF/DKIM/DMARC failures, spam complaints, IP reputation, encryption success rates, and more.
In summary, setting up Gmail Postmaster Tools is highly recommended. It offers valuable information for monitoring and troubleshooting all types of deliverability issues.
Setting up Google Postmaster
To get started with Google Postmaster, you need to add and verify your authentication domains. This authentication domain is based on the DKIM (d=) signature used to verify your emails. Google Postmaster uses your DKIM to recognize your email traffic and give you access to traffic analytics.
Here’s how to add and verify your domain in Google Postmaster:
- Set up DKIM for your domain. Check here on how to do so.
- Go to postmaster.google.com and click the "+" icon at the bottom right.
- A pop-up window will appear where you can enter your domain.
- Google Postmaster will ask you to create a TXT record in your domain's DNS:
Add the specified TXT record with your web hosting provider (like GoDaddy) according to Google’s instructions.
- After you add the TXT record, return to Google Postmaster and click "Verify" to complete the setup.
Once verified, you’ll begin to see data in Google Postmaster, though it will not include retroactive information. Note that some metrics only appear when certain data thresholds are reached (which are not publicly disclosed). If data doesn’t appear after a week, reach out to Google Support. Additionally, if you don’t see data after sending future campaigns, use an SPF/DKIM/DMARC check tool to confirm that your DKIM is properly configured.
FAQ
Do other inbox providers like Microsoft or Yahoo offer similar tools?
In short, no. Microsoft has a tool called SNDS, but it’s mostly useful for the email infrastructure owner rather than individual senders. Other ISPs, like mail.ru, have similar tools such as their Postmaster page, but in our experience, none are as reliable or comprehensive as Google’s.
How often does Google Postmaster update?
Google Postmaster updates frequently, which is one of its key strengths. If you make changes to improve your list or sending practices, these improvements are often reflected within a day. On the other hand, if you make a mistake that impacts your domain reputation, this will also show up quickly, allowing you to respond promptly.