Troubleshooting Email Issues with Webflow Hosting

Step 1: Verify Domain Ownership

First, ensure you have verified ownership of your domain within Webflow. This step enables Webflow to manage your domain's DNS records effectively.

- Sign in to your Webflow dashboard.
- Navigate to the Project Settings of your website.
- Click on the Hosting tab.
- Make sure the domain you intend to use for email is listed under Custom Domains.
- Follow the instructions to verify domain ownership, which may involve adding a TXT record in your DNS settings.

Step 2: Check DNS Records

Correct DNS configuration is crucial for proper email routing. Improper settings can disrupt email delivery.

- In the Webflow dashboard, go to the Hosting tab.
- Scroll to the Custom Domains section.
- Verify that the MX (Mail Exchange) records are correctly set. If using a specific email service (like Google Workspace), adhere to their guidelines for adding the correct MX records.
- Use an online DNS checker tool to ensure MX records match those specified by your email provider.

Step 3: Verify SPF and DKIM Records

SPF and DKIM records help prevent your emails from being flagged as spam by verifying their source.

- In the Hosting tab of your Webflow dashboard, locate the SPF and DKIM records for your email service.
- Ensure the SPF record includes the sending server(s) for your provider, typically formatted as v=spf1 include:your_email_provider.com -all.
- Follow your email provider’s instructions to generate and add a DKIM record to your DNS settings.

Step 4: Ensure Email Forwarding is Properly Configured

If using email forwarding, confirm settings are correct to avoid delivery issues.

- Check with your email provider or domain registrar.
- Verify that forwarding addresses are accurate and correspond to valid email addresses.

Step 5: Test Your Email Settings

After making changes to your DNS settings, test to ensure your email functions properly.

- Send a test email to your address from another provider like Gmail.
- Confirm receipt in your inbox, indicating settings are correct.
- If using forwarding, send an email to the original address to verify proper forwarding.

Step 6: Wait for DNS Propagation

After updating DNS records, it may take time for changes to propagate online, ranging from a few minutes to 48 hours.

- Use a DNS propagation checker to confirm changes have taken effect globally.
- Be patient and periodically test email functionality during this time.

Step 7: Contact Support

If issues persist despite following these steps, reach out for assistance.

- Visit the Webflow help center for resources and to submit a support ticket.
- If applicable, contact your email provider for specific assistance related to their service.

By following these steps, you can often resolve email issues with Webflow hosting and ensure reliable communication for your website. If problems continue, additional support may be needed.