What is the format of an SPF record and why do I need it for sending an email?

The format of an SPF record is as follows:

v=spf1 include:amazonses.com ~all

This snippet indicates that the domain authorises AWS SES to send mail on its behalf. To explicitly define a strict policy that invalidates emails from other sources, Acquia uses a custom MAIL FROM domain in the SPF entry. For more information, see Using a custom MAIL FROM domain. In addition, a custom MAIL FROM domain ensures that your emails comply with Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance (DMARC).

In addition, the ~all parameter signifies that if the email sender’s IP address is not listed in the SPF record, such emails are marked as insecure or spam but acceptable.