What’s the difference between link CNAME and email sending domain?
Sending domain:
- Appears in your From address (captain@tidalmail.com)
- Requires SPF, DKIM, DMARC authentication
- Subject to reputation scoring
- Affects inbox placement directly
Link tracking domain:
- Appears in URLs within email content
- Configured via CNAME to ESP tracking servers
- Requires valid SSL certificate
- Affects link reputation and click trust
Both matter for deliverability. A great sending domain with suspicious-looking links still triggers filters. Professional setup includes both.
Different credentials: who sent the cargo versus whose packaging it arrives in.
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