TXT Record Lookup | Free DNS Verification Tool

Intro — TXT as DNS’s Flexible Text Container

TXT records act as flexible text containers within DNS, allowing administrators to store diverse information for various purposes. They are widely used for domain ownership verification, email authentication, and other service configurations. By providing a structured way to include human-readable or machine-readable data, TXT records enhance both operational control and security across internet services.

Common Uses: Site Verification, SPF, Custom Metadata

TXT records serve multiple practical purposes in DNS management. They are commonly used to verify domain ownership for services like Google Search Console or Office 365. They can also hold SPF data to help email servers validate legitimate senders. Additionally, TXT records allow storage of custom metadata or configuration information, enabling developers and administrators to manage services, track configurations, and integrate platforms efficiently without modifying core DNS records.

Example: Adding a Verification Token for Google Workspace

TXT records can be used to confirm domain ownership for services like Google Workspace. By adding a specific verification token to your DNS, the service can validate that you control the domain. This process is simple but must be done accurately to ensure successful verification.

Step 1: Obtain the Token

Sign in to your Google Workspace admin console and request a domain verification token. Google provides a unique string that must be added as a TXT record in your DNS zone. Copy it carefully to avoid typos.

Step 2: Add the TXT Record

Access your domain’s DNS management interface and create a new TXT record with the provided token. Save changes and allow DNS propagation, which may take several minutes to complete. Once propagated, Google can verify domain ownership successfully.

Problems with Long TXT Entries (Splitting, Quotes, Client Parsing)

Long TXT entries can cause issues if not formatted correctly. Some DNS providers require splitting the text into multiple strings, while others need proper quoting. Misformatted entries can lead to failed verification, incorrect SPF or DKIM checks, or errors in services that read these records. Careful attention is needed when managing large TXT values.

Handling Multi-String Entries

When TXT data exceeds length limits, split it into multiple quoted strings as supported by your DNS provider. Each string is concatenated by the resolver, so the final value remains intact.

Client Parsing Considerations

Different applications and mail servers may parse TXT records differently. Improper quoting or missing segments can prevent services from reading the record correctly. Always validate with tools like dig or nslookup to ensure the full content is recognized by clients.

Tools and Methods to View and Validate TXT Content (dig + Online)

Several tools can help you inspect and verify TXT records effectively. Command-line utilities like dig or nslookup allow precise querying of specific TXT entries, showing their values and propagation status. Online DNS lookup platforms also provide user-friendly interfaces to check TXT records across multiple locations. Regular validation ensures that verification tokens, SPF data, and other text-based configurations are correctly recognized by services and that no formatting or propagation issues exist, maintaining reliable domain functionality and avoiding service disruptions.

Management Best Practices (Labeling, TTLs, Documentation)

Proper TXT record management ensures clarity and reduces errors. Use clear labels for each entry, set appropriate TTLs to control propagation speed, and maintain detailed documentation of all records. This approach helps teams track changes, avoid duplication, and ensures consistent behavior across services relying on TXT entries.

Labeling and TTLs

Assign descriptive names to TXT records and choose TTL values that balance rapid updates with stable caching. Clear labels and correct TTLs prevent confusion and reduce the risk of propagation delays.

Documentation and Auditing

Keep detailed records of all TXT entries, their purposes, and creation dates. Regular audits help identify obsolete or redundant entries and maintain a clean, reliable DNS configuration.

Check SPF records easily with our SPF Record Lookup tool.

Conclusion — Maintainable TXT Hygiene

Maintaining clean and organized TXT records is essential for reliable DNS operations. Use clear labeling, appropriate TTLs, and thorough documentation to prevent errors. Regular audits help remove outdated entries, ensure verification tokens and SPF/DKIM data remain valid, and support smooth service integration. Proper TXT hygiene enhances domain security and operational efficiency.