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check_mta_sts

Read-onlyIdempotent

Verify MTA-STS enforcement for inbound mail by checking DNS TXT record and HTTPS policy file, returning parsed policy, TLS certificate validity, and consistency warnings.

Instructions

Read-only check of MTA-STS: TXT record at _mta-sts. plus the HTTPS policy file at mta-sts./.well-known/mta-sts.txt. Returns parsed policy (mode: enforce/testing/none, mx allowlist, max_age), TLS certificate validity for the policy host, and consistency warnings between DNS and HTTPS. Use to verify enforced TLS for inbound mail; pair with check_smtp_tls for live STARTTLS validation. No auth, DNS + HTTPS GET only.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
domainYesDomain name only, e.g. example.com (no URL, path, or port)

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed3 schema fields changedv1.10.0
    • removedInput schema / additionalProperties
      Removed value: -false
    • changedInput schema / properties / domain / description
      Previous value: -"Domain name, e.g. example.com"New value: +"Domain name only, e.g. example.com (no URL, path, or port)"
    • addedInput schema / properties / domain / maxLength
      Added value: +253
  2. First observedv0.1.0

TDQS

A4.7/5.0
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already declare read-only/idempotent/non-destructive, but description adds operational details: DNS+HTTPS GETs, no auth, and exact return structure (mode, mx allowlist, max_age, warnings) that enhance transparency beyond the hints.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Two sentences deliver all essential information without redundancy. Front-loaded with the core function, followed by return details and usage guidance — no wasted words.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a tool with one parameter, rich annotations, and no output schema, the description covers what it does, how to use it, what it returns, and its relationship to sibling tools. Nothing essential is missing.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema provides thorough description of the single 'domain' parameter (no URL/path/port, maxLength). Description reinforces its usage in DNS and HTTPS lookups but adds minimal new semantic value; schema already covers the key constraints, so a 3 is baseline, with slight bump for integration context.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Clearly identifies the resource (MTA-STS via TXT record and HTTPS policy file) and specific outputs (parsed policy, certificate validity, consistency warnings). Distinguishes from sibling check_smtp_tls by stating its unique focus.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly states when to use (to verify enforced TLS for inbound mail) and directs to check_smtp_tls for live STARTTLS. Also notes 'No auth', clarifying prerequisites.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.