01
Syntax check
RFC 5321/5322 compliant regex validation. Catches malformed addresses, invalid TLDs, and structural errors instantly.
~0ms
02
DNS / MX lookup
Resolves MX records for the domain. Confirms the domain is configured to receive mail and identifies the mail server.
~100ms
03
SMTP handshake
Opens a real SMTP connection to the mail server and sends RCPT TO probe. Reads 250/550 response codes without sending any email.
~1–2s
04
Bounce analysis
For providers that block RCPT probing (Yahoo, AOL), a test send + bounce detection method is used to confirm delivery.
~10–30s