How to use the MX Lookup
Use this lookup to see where a domain directs inbound email and whether it publishes explicit, implicit, or Null MX behavior.
- Enter the domain after the @ in an email address, not the hostname of a mail server.
- Read explicit exchangers from lowest priority number to highest; senders normally try lower numbers first.
- Resolve every exchanger and compare the hostnames and priorities with the mail provider's current setup instructions.
How to read the result
Explicit records name the receiving mail servers. An implicit result means no MX record exists but the domain has an address. A record with priority 0 and exchange . is a Null MX declaration that the domain does not accept email.
Example
- Input
example.com- What to look for
- Expect the provider's mail hostnames in priority order. If there is no explicit MX, look for an implicit result; priority 0 with exchange . means the domain intentionally accepts no email.
Before you act on the result
MX records describe routing only. They do not prove that port 25 is reachable, TLS works, a mailbox exists, or the receiving server will accept a particular message.
Read the MX Record Guide for the technology overview and troubleshooting steps.