Listed on Spamhaus ZEN? How to get delisted
Spamhaus ZEN combines the SBL, XBL, and PBL zones into a single IP blacklist widely used by mail servers worldwide.
Confirm whether your domain and mail servers are listed.
Why Spamhaus ZEN lists a IP
IP listings come from spam sent by the address, a compromised host, an open relay or proxy, or membership of a range flagged for policy reasons (PBL).
How to get delisted
- Identify which zone lists the IP by checking the return code, then read the reason on the Spamhaus lookup page.
- Fix the root cause: secure the compromised account or host, close any open relay, and stop the spam source.
- Use the Spamhaus IP and Domain Reputation Checker to request removal once the cause is resolved. PBL entries can often be self-removed if you legitimately run a mail server on the IP.
Removal request page: https://check.spamhaus.org/
Prevent re-listing
Delisting only holds if the cause is fixed. Enforce a DMARC policy, keep SPF and DKIM aligned, secure sending accounts, and monitor for compromise. A clean deliverability report is the best signal that the underlying setup is sound.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spamhaus ZEN delisting take?
It varies by list. Automatic lists clear within hours once the abuse stops. Manual removals apply as soon as the operator processes the request, provided the root cause is resolved.
Will delisting fix my deliverability?
Removing the listing helps, but receivers also weigh authentication and sending reputation. Pair delisting with a strong SPF, DKIM, and DMARC setup for lasting improvement.