Sending Emails via SMTP in WordPress

WordPress comes with a built-in email function and relying solely on it may not always be the most reliable option. To enhance email deliverability and avoid common issues like emails ending up in spam folders or not being delivered at all, many WordPress users turn to SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol). In this guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up and sending emails via SMTP in WordPress.

Why Use SMTP in WordPress?

SMTP provides a more secure and reliable way to send emails compared to the default mail function in WordPress. By using SMTP, you can authenticate your emails, reduce the chances of them being marked as spam, and ensure that they reach the intended recipients.

Steps to Send Emails via SMTP in WordPress:

Step 1: Choose an SMTP Service Provider

Before configuring SMTP in WordPress, you need an SMTP service provider. There are several options available, both free and paid. Some popular choices include:

1. Local SMTP Email Account (Other SMTP)
   To create a new email account, please check this article: How to create an email account in cPanel
2. SMTP.com
3. SendGrid
4. Mailgun
5. Amazon SES (Simple Email Service)
6. Google Workspace (formerly G Suite)

The most common option is the first one, where you'd use the local email service and an email account on your domain.

Create a new email account in cPanel or sign up for an account at an SMTP provider that fits your needs, and obtain the necessary credentials (SMTP server, port, username, and password) to proceed.

Step 2: Install and Activate an SMTP Plugin

To integrate SMTP with your WordPress site, you'll need a plugin. One popular choice is the "WP Mail SMTP" plugin, but there are plenty of other similar plugins. Here's how to install and activate it:

1. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
2. Navigate to Plugins > Add New.
3. Search for "WP Mail SMTP" in the search bar.
4. Install and activate the plugin.

Step 3: Configure the WP Mail SMTP Plugin

Once the plugin is activated, you'll need to configure it with your SMTP provider's details:

1. Go to Settings > Email in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Scroll down to the "Mailer" section
   • Select "Other SMTP" if you'd like to use an email account that you've setup in cPanel (or another email account that offers SMTP).
   • Select any other SMTP provider if you prefer not to use our server to send emails.
3. A new section will appear. Enter the SMTP authentication details provided by cPanel or your SMTP service provider.
   • Locating Email Account Information in cPanel's Connect Devices Section
4. Choose the encryption method (TLS or SSL).
   • Please note that SSL/TLS encryption is mandatory on our servers.
5. Save the changes.

Step 4: Test Your Email Settings

After configuring the plugin, it's crucial to test your email settings to ensure everything is set up correctly. The WP Mail SMTP plugin provides a convenient test email feature:

1. Scroll down to the "Email Test" section.
2. Enter a valid email address and click the "Send Email" button.
3. Check your inbox for the test email to confirm that SMTP is working correctly.

Additional Tips for Email Deliverability:

1. Set Up SPF and DKIM Records: Many SMTP providers recommend setting up SPF (Sender Policy Framework), DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) and DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance) records to further authenticate your emails. Please check this article for more information: Troubleshooting guide if your outgoing emails are routed to Spam / Junk folders

2. Monitor Email Logs: The paid version of the WP Mail SMTP plugin offers an email log feature, allowing you to track sent emails and troubleshoot any delivery issues.

   • If you use an email account on our server, you can track sent emails in cPanel on the Email -> Track Delivery page.

3. Regularly Update Credentials: If you ever update your SMTP credentials, remember to update them in the WordPress plugin settings as well.

Conclusion:

By setting up and sending emails via SMTP in WordPress, you can enhance the reliability and security of your email communications. Follow these steps carefully, setup a new email account or choose a reputable SMTP service provider, and enjoy improved deliverability for your WordPress site's emails. With SMTP in place, you can ensure that important messages reach your audience without getting lost in spam folders.

Updated by SP on 09/01/2024