TXT Record

A TXT record holds text-based data that does not map to a specific type of content, unlike A records which map to IP addresses. We utilize these records for domain verification purposes. For example, when verifying a domain for Google Workspace, you must copy a unique TXT record value from the Google Admin console and paste it into your domain registrar's DNS settings. This action proves that you own the domain to the service provider. Another use case involves adding verification strings, such as those starting with "google-site-verification=". We must ensure this unique value is correctly entered into the DNS settings managed by your domain registrar.

When managing DNS records, we must distinguish TXT records from other types. While a robots.txt file is used to control search engine crawling, a TXT record is used for backend verification or specific service communication, not for content restriction. If you are setting up a new service that requires domain proof, checking the specific instructions for that service is necessary to obtain the correct, unique TXT record value.

For instance, if you are setting up Google Workspace, the process involves obtaining the specific value from the Google Admin console and then updating the DNS records at your domain registrar. We recommend consulting the specific documentation for the service you are verifying to ensure accuracy.

Related concepts include domain ownership verification and DNS record management.