DMARC subdomain policy (sp=) — when to use it
Use sp= to set a different policy for sub‑domains than the parent. Helpful when migrating routes or when only some sub‑brands are ready for enforcement. Example: p=reject; sp=quarantine.
Audit subdomains
Run audits on key sub‑domains and ensure alignment paths exist before raising policy.
Patterns
- Parent
p=reject, sub‑brandssp=quarantineduring migration - Transactional sub‑domains strict; marketing sub‑domains staged
- Explicit
sp=avoids surprises when inheriting parent policy