A default header in email services is a set of metadata automatically included in every email, like From, To, Subject, and Date. These headers help route, identify, and format the message properly. Default headers are usually hidden from the average user but can be viewed by choosing "View Original," "Show Source," or "View Headers," depending on your email service.
Why Default Headers Matter for Your Business
- Consistent Branding: By setting a default from name and email address for your dedicated sending domains, every email you send reflects your brand consistently. That consistency makes you look more professional and helps recipients recognise you.
- Improved Deliverability: The Default Header feature prevents conflicts from inconsistent email headers, minimising the risk of email failures and giving your messages a better chance of landing in the inbox.
- Compliance Alignment: Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook regularly update their sending guidelines, and falling behind can get your emails flagged as spam. The Default Header feature keeps your campaigns in line with those changes, supporting both compliance and deliverability.
Now that you understand the benefits, let's walk through the steps to set up the Default Header feature in your CRM account:
Navigate to Email Services
Log in to your CRM account and navigate to the settings area.
From the left navigation menu, select the "Email Services" tab, then click on "Dedicated Domain and IP" under the SMTP Services section.
Set Headers
Find the dedicated domain you want to configure and click on the three dots to access more options. Select "Set Headers" from the dropdown menu.
Enter Header Information
In the provided fields, enter the default from name and email address you want to use for this domain. These will be applied to all outgoing emails sent through this domain.
Save Your Settings
After entering the required information, click "Save" to apply the changes. You can verify the added name and email under the Default Header Section.
Follow these steps and your email campaigns will be ready to go, with consistent branding and optimised deliverability.
✍️ Important Notes
- The dedicated header will be applied exclusively in cases where DMARC alignment fails, as determined by SPF and DKIM validation logic.
- If you do not specify a custom "From Name" or "From Email," and a DMARC check fails, the system will automatically apply the default header to ensure successful message delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I have multiple sending domains?
- You can repeat the process for each domain, setting a unique default from name and email address that aligns with the specific branding of each domain.
Q: How do I know if my settings are working?
- Send a test email campaign to a controlled group or your own email address. Check the from name and email address to make sure they match your default settings.
Q: Can I change the default header settings?
- Yes, you can update the default from name and email address at any time by revisiting the "Set Headers" option for your dedicated domain.