How do I add Google MX records to DNS?

If you're setting up your domain to use Gmail for email, you’ll need to add something called “MX records” to your DNS settings. These records tell the internet that your email should go through Google’s mail servers. Don't worry—this may sound a bit technical, but we’ll walk through it together, step by step.

Step 1: Sign in to your domain account

First, go to the website where you registered your domain. This could be Namecheap, GoDaddy, or another provider.

• Open your web browser.

• Type the domain registrar’s website address (for example, www.namecheap.com or www.godaddy.com).

• Log in using your username and password.

Tip: If you’re not sure where your domain is registered, try checking your email for your original purchase receipt.

Step 2: Go to the DNS settings

Once you're logged in, find your domain name and go to its DNS or Domain Settings page. This is where you can manage all the behind-the-scenes settings for your domain.

• Look for something like “Manage Domain”, “DNS Settings”, or “Advanced DNS”.

• Click to open the DNS management section.

Step 3: Delete any old MX records

Before adding Google’s MX records, it’s a good idea to remove any existing MX entries. Having the wrong records can cause email problems.

• In the DNS records list, look for lines that say MX under the “Type” column.

• One by one, click Edit or Delete (depending on your provider) and remove those old MX records.

Don’t worry—you’ll replace them with Google’s records in the next step.

Step 4: Add Google’s MX records

Now let’s add the correct MX records provided by Google. You’ll usually see an Add New Record button. Click that, and fill in the fields as shown below.

You’ll need to add five MX records. Each one has:

• Type: MX

• Host / Name: @ or leave blank (depending on your provider)

• Value / Points to: (see list below)

• Priority: (see list below)

Here’s what to enter for each record:

Important: Make sure you include the dot (.) at the end of each server name, if your DNS provider requires it.

After you enter each one, click Save or Add Record.

Step 5: Wait for the changes to update

DNS changes aren’t instant. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours for everything to update across the internet. Usually, it’s much faster.

While you wait, you can go back to your Google Admin account (if you’re using Google Workspace) and continue setting up your email.

Step 6: Check if your email works

Once your MX records are active, try sending an email to your new address (like yourname@yourdomain.com) from another email account. If it lands in your Gmail inbox, everything is working!

If it doesn't work right away, don’t panic—just give it a little more time.