Setting up Smart Network Data Services (SNDS)

Objective

SNDS stands for "Smart Network Data Services" – Similar to Google Postmaster, SNDS works for Outlook.com and allows you to verify that your email domain is yours. It also provides detailed data about individual IPs, and it lets you receive reports when users junk your messages. SNDS can be a very powerful tool for improving deliverability when sending from a dedicated IP to Microsoft domain recipients (includes Azure, Microsoft, Outlook, Hotmail, etc.).

Product

Email 

Procedure

Step 1: Preparation — Verify rDNS & Set Up Abuse Mailbox

Before you begin, ensure the following:

  • Reverse DNS (rDNS):
    • Verify that your sending IP address has reverse DNS (rDNS) configured correctly.
    • rDNS should point to a domain you own or manage. (Example: 123.123.123.123 → mail.domain.com)
    • This domain will be the one shown below in step 3 of this guide: Request Access to Monitor Your IP Address

  • Set up an Abuse Email Inbox:

    • Create or ensure you can access an inbox for the address: abuse@YOUR_DOMAIN.COM (Replace YOUR_DOMAIN.COM with your actual sending domain.)

    Important: You must have access to this inbox. Microsoft will send your SNDS verification email here.

Step 2: Sign Up or Sign In to SNDS

  • Navigate to Microsoft's SNDS portal: https://postmaster.live.com/snds
  • Sign in using a Microsoft Account (such as Hotmail, Live, Outlook). If you don't have a Microsoft account yet, you can create one for free.

Step 3: Request Access to Monitor Your IP Address

  • Within SNDS, locate the option labeled "Request Access".
  • Add your IP address(es) or IP range. (Use the exact IP(s) currently sending mail through your domain.)
  • Microsoft will then show you a list of available abuse email addresses based on your IP address's rDNS lookup. Typical choices include:
    • abuse@sendgrid.com (DO NOT choose this; it's controlled by SendGrid)
      • If this is selected, you will need to follow up with SendGrid Support to request approval for the IP.
    • abuse@yourdomain.com(select this one—your own domain email)
  • Choose the abuse-related address containing your own domain (the one you have access to).

Step 4: Authorize SNDS via Email Verification

  • Microsoft immediately sends a confirmation email from: snds-authorization@outlook.com to your chosen abuse mailbox (e.g., abuse@yourdomain.com).

  • Open the email and carefully read instructions. Follow the provided link or steps to approve the SNDS access request.

    This verification step confirms your ownership of the IP/domain.

Step 5: Begin Monitoring Your IP Reputation

  • After verification is complete, you'll receive access to Microsoft SNDS data immediately or within about 24–48 hours.
  • Use SNDS data regularly to:
    • Track deliverability and reputation of your IP addresses.
    • Monitor potential issues affecting email delivery to Outlook/Hotmail/MSN inboxes.

📚 Helpful Resources & Links:

 

 

 

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