---
title: "Delegate a Domain"
slug: "delegate-a-domain"
updated: 2025-08-12T10:09:51Z
published: 2025-08-12T10:09:51Z
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mapp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Delegate a Domain

## Goal

To delegate a subdomain to the Mapp nameservers.

## Background Information

The process of domain delegation allows Mapp to use your subdomain to send emails. This step enables us to create the necessary DNS records to send email on your behalf. Domain delegation is a crucial part of the onboarding process and is required before you can send emails with Engage.

### Key Points:

- **Limited Access:** Mapp only gains access to the subdomain you create and designate for email marketing, not your primary domain.
- **Branding:** For branding purposes, it’s recommended to create a subdomain from your existing brand's domain, though setting up a new domain is also an option.

### Example:

- **Primary Domain:** travelagency.com
- **Subdomain:** news.travelagency.com
- **Email Example:** newsletter@news.travelagency.com

The subdomain must be a "real" subdomain, meaning it needs to be a sub-zone. An A (alias) or CNAME record is not sufficient. If there are other A records with the same name, you will need to change the subdomain or delete the previous entry.

## Procedure

### Step 1: Determine the Subdomain

Decide on the domain or subdomain you want to delegate (e.g., email.client.com). Coordinate with your IT department to set up this subdomain. A Mapp representative can discuss the request with your IT contact if necessary.

### Step 2: Delegate the Subdomain

For each subdomain you plan to use with Engage, delegate it to the following nameservers by creating NS records for the new subdomain:

- ns1.shortest-route.com
- ns2.shortest-route.de
- ns3.shortest-route.com

#### Example 1:

```plaintext
subdomain IN NS ns1.shortest-route.com.
subdomain IN NS ns2.shortest-route.de.
subdomain IN NS ns3.shortest-route.com.
```

#### Example 2:

```markdown
subdomain IN NS ns1.shortest-route.com.
          IN NS ns2.shortest-route.de.
          IN NS ns3.shortest-route.com.
```

Ensure each record includes a period (".") at the end.

### Step 3: Verify the Delegation

Confirm that the subdomain is delegated correctly to Mapp by following these steps:

1. Visit [DNS Watch](http://www.dnswatch.info/en).
2. In the **Hostname or IP** input field, enter the subdomain.
3. From the **Type** drop-down list, select **NS**.
4. Click **Resolve**. The delegation works correctly if the response contains the nameservers listed in Step 2.

### Step 4: Notify Mapp

Inform your Mapp representative that your subdomain has been successfully delegated to the Mapp nameservers.

Following these steps ensures that your subdomain is properly delegated, allowing Mapp to manage your email marketing effectively.

> [!NOTE]
> Important note
> 
> For optimal connectivity, simplicity, and security, We strongly recommend you use the direct domain delegation explained above.
> 
> 
> 
> Alternative methods to DNS delegation, such as DNS record pointing and Content Delivery Network / Web Application Firewall configurations present significant risks and operational complexity, which you must manage independently without Mapp’s ongoing support.