How to Configure MX Records

This article explains how to configure MX records for your domain to set up custom email addresses.

What are MX Records

MX records (Mail Exchange records) tell the internet where to deliver emails sent to your domain. When someone sends an email to hello@yourbusiness.ie, MX records direct that email to the right mail server.

Step 1: Access Your Domain's DNS Settings

You need to change MX records where your domain is registered, not in Web60.

1. Log into your domain registrar's website (where you bought your domain)
2. Find the DNS settings, DNS management, or domain management section
3. Look for MX records or Mail Exchange records

If you transferred your domain to Web60, you can manage DNS settings through your Web60 portal. See our guide on managing DNS settings for your domain.

Step 2: Remove Existing MX Records

Before adding new MX records:

1. Look for any existing MX records in your DNS settings
2. Delete or remove all existing MX records
3. This prevents conflicts between old and new email settings

Step 3: Add New MX Records

Add these MX records exactly as shown:

Record 1:

• Type: MX
• Name: @ (or leave blank)
• Value/Points to: mx1.smarthost.ie
• Priority: 10

Record 2:

• Type: MX
• Name: @ (or leave blank)
• Value/Points to: mx2.smarthost.ie
• Priority: 20

The priority numbers matter. Lower numbers (like 10) are checked first.

Step 4: Save and Wait

1. Save your DNS changes
2. Wait 24-48 hours for changes to take effect across the internet
3. During this time, emails might not work properly

Step 5: Test Your Email Setup

After 24 hours:

1. Send a test email to your new email address
2. Check if you receive it in your email client
3. Try sending an email from your new address

If emails aren't working after 48 hours, check our email not working with custom domain troubleshooting guide.

If you're still stuck, contact Web60 support through your portal. Include your domain name and screenshots of your MX record settings.

FAQ

Q: How long do MX record changes take to work?

A: MX record changes typically take 24-48 hours to work properly. This is called DNS propagation and happens automatically across the internet.

Q: Can I use MX records with any email provider?

A: No, these specific MX records (mx1.smarthost.ie and mx2.smarthost.ie) only work with Web60 email services. Other providers use different MX records.

Q: What happens if I set the wrong priority numbers?

A: Wrong priority numbers can cause email delivery problems. Always use priority 10 for mx1.smarthost.ie and priority 20 for mx2.smarthost.ie.

Q: Do I need to change MX records if I only have a website?

A: No, you only need MX records if you want to receive emails at your domain name (like info@yourbusiness.ie).

Q: Can I have multiple MX records pointing to different email providers?

A: No, all MX records for your domain must point to the same email provider. Mixing providers will cause emails to get lost.

Q: What if my domain registrar doesn't have an MX record option?

A: All domain registrars provide MX record settings, but they might call it "Mail Exchange", "Email Settings", or "Mail Records". Contact your registrar's support if you can't find it.