DNS · Website glossary

MX record

Quick answer · What is MX record?

A DNS record that identifies a mail exchanger for a domain and its preference value.

IN PRACTICE

MX record: an example

Mail for example.com is routed using its MX destinations, with lower preference numbers tried first.

KEEP IN MIND

MX values identify hostnames, not mailbox usernames; changing website records need not change email routing.

Put the idea to work

Frequently asked questions

What is a practical example of MX record?

Mail for example.com is routed using its MX destinations, with lower preference numbers tried first.

Does an MX record identify a mailbox username?

MX values identify hostnames, not mailbox usernames; changing website records need not change email routing.

Which concepts should I read alongside MX record?

SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol is used to submit and transfer email between systems.
DNS record: A typed piece of information associated with a name in a DNS zone.