How can I interpret provider-specific bounce details?

Interpreting provider-specific bounces requires multiple sources:

Step 1: Capture full details

Record complete SMTP response. Include enhanced status codes. Preserve any reference URLs.

Step 2: Consult documentation

Gmail: support.google.com/mail postmaster articles. Microsoft: docs.microsoft.com Exchange error references. Yahoo: postmaster.yahooinc.com. Provider-specific postmaster pages.

Step 3: Decode the structure

Basic code (5xx/4xx) for severity. Enhanced code (X.Y.Z) for category. Message text for specifics.

Step 4: Track patterns

Compare against historical bounces. Note provider-specific quirks. Build internal documentation.

Step 5: Test and verify

Validate interpretation through testing. Confirm remediation addresses cause.

Interpretation combines documentation with experience. Each provider's dialect becomes familiar over time.