# Connect a domain

> Choose a sending subdomain, publish its DNS records, and verify it — start to finish.

This guide connects a sending domain such as `mail.example.com`. It takes about ten minutes of work, plus DNS propagation time.

## Before you start

- Access to the DNS settings of your domain — usually your registrar, Cloudflare, or your hosting provider. Not sure where? Look up your domain's nameservers: the provider they point to is where you add records.
- A subdomain name. We recommend `mail`, `send`, or `notifications`.

## Connect your domain

### Add the domain

In the dashboard, open **Email → Domains**, select **Add domain**, and enter the full subdomain, for example `mail.example.com`.

### Copy the DNS records

The domain page lists every record with its type, name, and value: the DKIM records, the bounce-handling MX and SPF records on `nc-bounce.mail.example.com`, and an optional DMARC record. [What each record does](/docs/learn/domains#dns-records).

### Add them at your DNS provider

Create each record exactly as shown. If your provider adds your domain to record names automatically, enter only the part before your root domain — for example `nc-bounce.mail`. Step-by-step instructions are in [DNS provider setup](/docs/learn/dns-providers).

> [!WARNING]
> On Cloudflare, set every record to **DNS only** (grey cloud). Proxied records cannot be verified.

### Verify

Select **Check status** on the domain page. Each record shows its own status, so you can see which ones are confirmed. Pending domains are also re-checked automatically every 30 minutes.

### Send a test

When the domain shows **Verified**, select **Send test email** and send one to yourself. Your domain is ready.

## How long does it take?

Most DNS changes are visible within minutes. Some providers take up to 48 hours, depending on the record's TTL. If a domain is still pending after an hour, use [Domain not verifying](/docs/learn/domain-not-verifying) to find the problem.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can I use my root domain?

No — sending domains must be subdomains, such as `mail.example.com`. Your recipients still see a professional address like `hello@mail.example.com`, and your root domain's existing email is unaffected.

### Will this affect my existing email?

No. All records are created on your sending subdomain, so the MX and SPF records that deliver mail to your root domain stay unchanged.

### Do I need the DMARC record?

It is optional and never blocks sending, but recommended: mailbox providers increasingly expect DMARC. Start with `p=none`, then tighten the policy once you are confident all your mail is authenticated.

### Can I connect several domains?

Yes. The number of domains depends on your plan. Use separate subdomains for different kinds of email to keep their reputations independent.

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Source: https://connect.nxiom.com/docs/learn/connect-domain