To optimize email deliverability, DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) plays a crucial role in authenticating emails and boosting their credibility with mailbox providers. One key aspect is the length of the cryptographic key, with 1024-bit and 2048-bit options. Inboxroad has recently switched to a more secure 2048-bit DKIM key to enhance email authentication and protect against spoofing.
One important consideration with DKIM is the length of the cryptographic key used, with 1024-bit and 2048-bit keys being the most common. But which one is right for you? At Inboxroad, where email deliverability is at the core of what we do, we’re here to guide you through the differences between DKIM 1024 and DKIM 2048, and why choosing the right option can help you hit the inbox every time.
What is DKIM?
DKIM is a method of email authentication that allows the receiver to check that an email claimed to come from a specific domain was indeed authorized by the owner of that domain. It works by adding a digital signature to the headers of your emails.
This digital signature is verified against a public key in your domain’s DNS records. If the signature is valid, the receiving server knows that the email hasn’t been tampered with, boosting the credibility of your email and helping ensure it gets delivered to the inbox, not the spam folder.
DKIM 1024 vs. 2048: The Key Difference
The primary difference between DKIM 1024 and DKIM 2048 lies in the length of the encryption key.
- 1024-bit key: A DKIM key of 1024 bits was the industry standard for many years. It’s shorter, which means it uses less server processing power and requires smaller DNS records. However, as cyber threats evolve, 1024-bit encryption is increasingly considered less secure.
- 2048-bit key: The 2048-bit key offers a higher level of security because it is much harder to break. This lengthier encryption makes it a more secure option for companies that need enhanced protection from email spoofing and phishing attempts.
Why Choose DKIM 2048?
- Increased Security As we’ve already mentioned, 2048-bit keys provide stronger encryption. As email attacks grow in sophistication, email providers and ISPs are raising the bar on security. DKIM 2048 helps future-proof your email authentication and ensures that your domain is protected from malicious attacks such as email spoofing.
- Better Reputation with ISPs Internet service providers (ISPs) look for stronger authentication methods when assessing email legitimacy. Using DKIM 2048 can give your emails an edge, helping them pass through spam filters more effectively. It’s a small but significant way to increase trust with email service providers, resulting in better inbox placement rates.
- ISP Preferences Some major ISPs, including Gmail, have publicly stated that they prefer DKIM keys of 2048 bits or longer. By adopting DKIM 2048, you’re staying aligned with the preferences of the largest email providers, which can directly improve your deliverability.
Why Not Stick with DKIM 1024?
While 1024-bit keys are faster and less resource-intensive, they no longer meet modern security standards. Many email providers and large corporations are moving away from 1024-bit encryption due to its vulnerabilities. Continuing to use DKIM 1024 could eventually harm your email reputation and deliverability as providers shift to stronger encryption methods.
The Downsides of DKIM 2048
There are a few trade-offs to consider when switching to DKIM 2048, although they are relatively minor:
- Larger DNS Records: Since the key is longer, DKIM 2048 requires more DNS storage space, which could become an issue for domains with many DNS records. This isn’t a dealbreaker for most businesses, but it’s something to be aware of.
- Increased Processing Time: Longer keys take slightly longer to process, which can increase the time it takes to send an email. However, in most cases, the difference in processing time is negligible.
How to Implement DKIM 2048 for Your Domain
Switching to DKIM 2048 is a simple but important step in improving your email security and deliverability. Here’s how to make the change:
- Generate a 2048-bit DKIM Key: This can be done through your dashboard https://app.inboxroad.com/dashboard
- Update Your DNS Records: Once you’ve generated the key, you’ll need to update your DNS settings with the new DKIM key. Double-check the format and accuracy before saving, as mistakes here can prevent your emails from being properly authenticated.
Conclusion: Secure your email with DKIM 2048
In today’s competitive email marketing landscape, security and deliverability go hand in hand. By upgrading to DKIM 2048, you’re not only securing your emails against modern threats but also increasing your chances of landing in the inbox instead of the spam folder.
At Inboxroad, our focus is on helping you improve your email deliverability. Whether it’s through advanced DKIM authentication, IP warm-up, or inbox monitoring, we offer the tools and expertise to ensure your emails reach your audience.
Ready to optimize your email deliverability? Contact Inboxroad today to learn more about how we can help you get your emails in the inbox every time.
