PTR Record
Also known as: Pointer record
A PTR record is a type of DNS record that maps an IP address to a domain name, used for Reverse DNS.
A PTR record (Pointer Record) is the specific entry in the Domain Name System (DNS) that enables Reverse DNS lookups. Unlike A records which point a domain to an IP, PTR records point an IP to a domain.
PTR records are critical for email deliverability. Major inbox providers check for a valid PTR record to verify that the sending server isn't a compromised residential computer or a botnet. If your sending IP lacks a PTR record, your emails will almost certainly be blocked.
Usually, your hosting provider or ISP manages PTR records for your IP addresses, as they control the IP block.
Related Terms
Reverse DNS(rDNS)
Reverse DNS is the process of resolving an IP address back to a domain name, the opposite of standard DNS lookup.
Learn more →Domain Reputation
How trusted your sending domain is by email providers like Gmail and Outlook. A strong domain reputation keeps your emails in the inbox instead of spam.
Learn more →From Address(From Field)
The email address people see as the sender in their inbox. It tells them who the message is from and helps them decide whether to open it.
Learn more →MIME Type(MIME)
MIME types are labels that tell email clients what kind of content each part of a message holds. They make sure text, HTML, images, and attachments show up the way you expect.
Learn more →