What is Microsoft Smart Network Certification?

Microsoft previously offered certification programs for sender whitelisting. These programs evolved and changed over time. Current Microsoft approach focuses on SNDS (Smart Network Data Services) for reputation visibility rather than formal certification.

SNDS provides reputation data for IPs sending to Microsoft properties. Senders can see their reputation status, complaint rates, and spam trap information. This visibility enables self-improvement rather than certified bypass.

Microsoft's approach emphasizes: authentication requirements (they helped drive DMARC adoption), engagement-based filtering, and relationship with high-volume senders through direct channels. Formal certification is less emphasized than demonstrated good practices.