title: "Connect Email & SMS" order: 12
Connect Email & SMS
Step 1: Connect your email provider
- Instruction: Go to Settings → Email and connect your SMTP provider or select the built-in integration. Enter credentials and follow prompts to verify the sending domain.
- Expected: The sending domain shows as verified and the platform can send test emails.
- Why it matters: Verified domains improve inbox placement and reduce spam filtering.
- Troubleshooting: If verification fails, check DNS propagation and that SPF/DKIM records were added correctly at your registrar.
Step 2: Add SPF and DKIM records
- Instruction: Copy the platform-provided SPF and DKIM records and add them to your DNS provider for your sending domain.
- Expected: DNS propagation completes and the platform reports records as valid.
- Why it matters: These records authenticate your messages, improving deliverability and reputation.
- Troubleshooting: Use DNS lookup tools to confirm records; wait up to 48 hours for propagation.
Step 3: Provision or connect an SMS number
- Instruction: Go to Settings → SMS and choose a number to provision or connect your SMS provider. Complete any regional registration required.
- Expected: SMS sending is enabled and opt-in controls are available on forms.
- Why it matters: Correctly provisioned and compliant numbers reduce blocking and legal risk.
- Troubleshooting: If messages fail, confirm carrier restrictions and check opt-in settings for the recipient country.
Step 4: Send and validate test messages
- Instruction: Send a test email and SMS from the settings area to verify sender names, links, and templates.
- Expected: Test messages are delivered and render correctly on devices.
- Why it matters: Tests catch formatting and link errors before sending to customers.
- Troubleshooting: If tests fail, review provider credentials, sending quotas, and message content for blocked links.
What success looks like
- Verified sending domain and passing SPF/DKIM checks.
- Test emails and SMS arrive and render correctly.
- Low bounce and complaint rates in initial campaigns.