txtRecord

A TXT record is a type of DNS resource record that stores text data associated with a domain. TXT records are used to convey information for verification, policy, and other services, and they are retrieved through DNS queries to obtain the text content.

In zone files, a TXT record contains one or more character strings, each up to 255 bytes, enclosed in quotes. A domain may have multiple TXT records or a single record with several strings. The total length of a TXT entry can exceed 255 bytes by concatenating multiple strings.

Common uses include SPF (sender policy framework), DKIM (domain keys identified mail), and DMARC (domain-based message authentication, reporting, and conformance). Other uses include domain ownership verification for services, API keys, and configuration hints published by the domain owner.

Retrieval and formatting: use DNS query tools such as dig or nslookup with type TXT, for example, dig example.com TXT. TXT records are publicly readable. Some resolvers and network paths impose UDP response size limits, so long text is often split into multiple strings or served via an alternative mechanism.

Limitations and notes: TXT records are not a secure storage mechanism and should not be used for sensitive data. Changes propagate according to DNS TTLs and may take time to become visible. While SPF records are commonly published as TXT records for compatibility, other uses may also apply. RFCs define the semantics and usage of TXT records within DNS.