Why IPs typically get listed
S5H's own policy states that mail or HTTP requests containing spam can get a source IP listed.
That means both mail traffic and web traffic from your network can trigger a listing.
Common causes include a compromised mail server sending spam without your knowledge.
Other causes include an open relay, a hacked website sending spam through a contact form, or a device on your network running malware.
Shared hosting and shared IP ranges can also get listed because of another tenant's bad traffic.
Spam traps (addresses used only to catch spammers) can trigger a listing too, if your list hygiene is poor.
How to check if you're listed
Use any standard DNSBL lookup tool and query all.s5h.net directly.
You can also do this manually with a DNS query tool like dig or nslookup.
Reverse the IP octets and append .all.s5h.net, then query for an A record.
A returned result means the IP is currently listed.
No result, or an NXDOMAIN response, means the IP is clean on this list.
How to get removed
First, fix the root cause before requesting removal.
Check mail server logs for unusual outbound volume or unfamiliar sending accounts.
Scan for malware, patch any open relay configuration, and change compromised passwords.
If the issue was a compromised web form, close or secure that form.
Once the source of the problem is resolved, submit a removal request.
S5H's listing information points to a removal page hosted on a related site, usenix.org.uk, rather than a self-service control panel on s5h.net itself.
Follow the instructions on that removal page to submit your IP for review.
Be ready to describe what caused the listing and what you changed to fix it.
Try our Blacklist Monitoring tool for free today.
How long it typically takes
S5H does not publish a guaranteed turnaround time for removal requests.
Many DNSBL operators process delisting requests within a day or two once the cause is fixed.
If your IP stays listed well past that, double check that the underlying issue is actually resolved.
A new listing can also reappear quickly if the problem recurs.
FAQ
How do I run an s5h blacklist check?
Query all.s5h.net using a DNSBL lookup tool or a manual DNS query with dig or nslookup. Reverse your IP's octets and add .all.s5h.net before the query. A returned A record confirms the listing. No answer means your IP is not currently listed there.
How do I remove an IP from S5H?
First fix whatever caused the listing, such as a compromised server or an open relay. Then submit a removal request through the operator's listed removal page. Include details about the cause and the fix you applied. Review times are not guaranteed, so check back after a day or two.
Why did my IP get listed on all.s5h.net even though I don't send spam?
Listings can happen because of shared IP space, where another user on the same host or network caused the problem. A compromised device, website, or mail account on your network can also trigger it without your knowledge. Check your logs closely before assuming the listing is a mistake.
Will removal from S5H happen automatically over time?
Some DNSBL entries do expire automatically if no new abuse is detected. S5H has not published a confirmed automatic expiry period. The safer approach is to fix the cause and submit a removal request rather than waiting.
Can S5H list my IP again after removal?
Yes, if the same abusive behavior happens again from that IP. Relisting is common when the root cause, like malware or an open relay, was not fully fixed. Monitoring your IP ongoing helps you catch a repeat listing fast.
