Setting Up TXT Records for Verification

This article explains how to add TXT records to your domain for verification with services like Google Search Console or Microsoft tools.

What Are TXT Records

TXT records are small pieces of text stored in your domain's DNS settings. Services like Google Search Console use them to verify you own your domain. When you add a TXT record, you're proving to the service that you control the domain.

Step 1: Get Your TXT Record Details

Before you start, you need the TXT record information from the service you're trying to verify with:

1. Log into the service that asked you to add a TXT record (like Google Search Console)
2. Look for the verification section
3. Choose "DNS record" or "TXT record" as your verification method
4. Copy the TXT record value they provide - it usually looks like a long string of random letters and numbers

Step 2: Access Your Web60 Portal

1. Go to your Web60 portal and log in
2. Click on "Domain Management" in the main menu
3. Find the domain you need to verify and click "Manage DNS"
4. Look for the "DNS Records" section

Step 3: Add the TXT Record

1. Click "Add New Record"
2. Set the record type to "TXT"
3. Leave the "Name" field blank (or put "@" if required)
4. In the "Value" field, paste the TXT record string you copied earlier
5. Set TTL to 3600 (this is how long DNS servers remember the record)
6. Click "Save Record"

Step 4: Wait for DNS Propagation

DNS changes take time to spread across the internet. This is called propagation:

• Changes usually take 15 minutes to 2 hours
• In rare cases, it can take up to 24 hours
• You cannot speed this up - it's handled by internet infrastructure

Step 5: Verify in the Service

Once you've waited at least 15 minutes:

1. Go back to the service that asked for verification
2. Click their "Verify" or "Check" button
3. If it works, you'll see a success message
4. If it fails, wait another hour and try again

For more help with DNS settings, see Managing DNS Settings for Your Domain.

Common TXT Record Uses

Google Search Console: Starts with "google-site-verification=" Microsoft Bing: Usually starts with "MS=" Email verification: Services like Mailchimp or ConvertKit use TXT records to verify you own your domain SPF records: These are TXT records that help with email delivery

If you're still stuck, contact Web60 support with the exact TXT record you're trying to add and which service asked for it.

FAQ

Q: How long do TXT records take to work?

A: TXT records usually work within 15 minutes to 2 hours, but can take up to 24 hours in rare cases. This waiting time is normal and cannot be avoided.

Q: Can I have multiple TXT records on the same domain?

A: Yes, you can add multiple TXT records to one domain. Each service that needs verification will give you a different TXT record to add.

Q: What if Google Search Console says my TXT record isn't found?

A: Wait longer for DNS propagation, then try again. Make sure you copied the entire TXT record value exactly as Google provided it, including any quotation marks.

Q: Do I need to keep TXT records forever?

A: Yes, keep verification TXT records active. If you delete them, services like Google Search Console will lose verification and you'll need to verify again.

Q: Why is my TXT record not working after 24 hours?

A: Check you pasted the exact value Google or the service provided. Contact Web60 support if you're sure the record is correct but verification still fails.

Q: Can I add TXT records if my domain isn't registered with Web60?

A: Only if your domain's nameservers point to Web60. If your domain is registered elsewhere but uses Web60's nameservers, you can manage DNS records through Web60.

Q: What's the difference between TXT records and CNAME records for verification?

A: Both verify domain ownership, but work differently. TXT records are usually easier because you just add text. CNAME records create a subdomain that points to the service's servers.