Email is a crucial component of any website, and WordPress is no exception. If you’re running a WordPress website, it’s important to configure SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) properly to ensure that your website’s email functionality is working correctly.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to configure SMTP with your WordPress website.
What is SMTP?
SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, which is a standard protocol used for sending and receiving email messages.
When you send an email from your WordPress website, SMTP is used to transfer the message from your website’s server to the recipient’s email server.
Why Configure SMTP with WordPress?
By default, WordPress uses the PHP mail function to send emails from your website. However, this method is not always reliable and can result in emails being marked as spam or not being delivered at all.
By configuring SMTP with your WordPress website, you can ensure that your emails are delivered reliably and securely.
How to Configure SMTP with WordPress
Step 1: Choose an SMTP Provider
To configure SMTP with your WordPress website, you’ll need to choose an SMTP provider.
There are many SMTP providers available, including Gmail, Amazon SES, and Sendinblue, to name a few.
Each provider has its own pricing structure and features, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Step 2: Install and Activate the WP Mail SMTP Plugin
Once you’ve chosen an SMTP provider, you’ll need to install and activate the WP Mail SMTP plugin on your WordPress website.
This plugin allows you to configure SMTP settings for your website and ensures that all outgoing emails are sent through your chosen SMTP provider.
To install the WP Mail SMTP plugin, log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Plugins > Add New.
Search for “WP Mail SMTP” and click the “Install Now” button. Once the plugin is installed, click the “Activate” button to activate the plugin.
Step 3: Configure WP Mail SMTP Settings
After you’ve installed and activated the WP Mail SMTP plugin, you’ll need to configure the plugin settings. To do this, navigate to WP Mail SMTP > Settings.
In the “General” tab, you’ll need to enter the “From Email” and “From Name” fields. These fields determine the name and email address that will be displayed as the sender of your website’s emails.
Next, you’ll need to scroll down to the “Mail” section and select “SMTP” as the mailer. This will enable SMTP for your website’s outgoing emails.
Step 4: Enter SMTP Provider Details
After selecting SMTP as the mailer, you’ll need to enter your SMTP provider details. The exact details required will depend on your chosen SMTP provider, but generally, you’ll need to enter the following:
SMTP Host: The SMTP server address provided by your SMTP provider.
Encryption: The encryption method used by your SMTP provider (TLS or SSL).
SMTP Port: The port number used by your SMTP provider (usually 587 or 465).
SMTP Authentication: Your SMTP provider’s authentication details, including username and password.
Once you’ve entered these details, click the “Save Settings” button to save your changes.
Step 5: Test Email Functionality
After configuring your SMTP settings, it’s important to test your website’s email functionality to ensure that everything is working correctly. To do this, navigate to WP Mail SMTP > Email Test.
Enter an email address to send the test email to and click the “Send Email” button. If the email is delivered successfully, you’ll see a success message. If there are any issues, the plugin will display an error message with details on how to troubleshoot the issue.
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