WordPress and WP Mail SMTP: A guide to improving email reliability

WordPress has been a staple platform for website development for several years, renowned for its user-friendly interface and flexibility in managing and customizing websites for folks all over the world. When it comes to the essential features that WordPress offers, WP Mail SMTP takes the cake. This plugin enables WordPress to send emails using an external SMTP server, which not only enhances the reliability of emails but also prevents spamming.

Step-by-step guide on setting up WP Mail SMTP in WordPress

Step 1: Installing WP Mail SMTP Plugin

To install the WP Mail SMTP plugin, head over to your WordPress Dashboard, click on ‘Plugins,’ then select ‘Add New.’ In the search box, type WP Mail SMTP and click ‘Install Now.’ Once installed, activate the plugin.

Step 2: Configuring WP Mail SMTP Plugin

After the plugin is installed and activated, it’s essential to configure settings that enable external SMTP mail delivery. Begin by clicking on ‘WP Mail SMTP’ and navigating to the settings page.

Step 3: Selecting an Email Provider

WP Mail SMTP offers several email providers such as Gmail, Yahoo, and Microsoft. Select your provider of choice, and the SMTP settings will be automatically populated. All you will be required to do is enter your login details.

Step 4: Setting up SMTP Credentials

If you are using an external SMTP provider not listed on WP Mail SMTP, you’ll need to enter the SMTP credentials manually (the SMTP host address, username, and password). Once you have the SMTP credentials, go to the WP Mail SMTP settings page and navigate to the ‘SMTP settings’ tab. Fill in your SMTP host and port number in the corresponding fields. Enter your SMTP username and password.

If you are using SSL or TLS (encryption protocols), select the corresponding option under ‘Encryption.’ Enter the ‘From Email,’ which is the email address you want to use. The ‘From Name’ field is optional. Once done, press the ‘Save Settings’ button.

Step 5: Testing the Configuration

After setting up the SMTP credentials, the next step is to test the configuration. WP Mail SMTP offers various methods of testing the setup.

One method is to send a test email from WP Mail SMTP’s email test tab (enter your email address, fill in a message, and click on ‘Send email’). If the configuration is correct, you should receive an email sent through the external SMTP server. If otherwise, go back to the settings page and check if you entered the accurate credentials.

Another way to test the configuration is by using the ‘Mail Logs’ tab. This tab shows a log of all the emails sent using external SMTP, including successful and failed deliveries. If there are many failed deliveries, it could be an indication that the configuration is incorrect.

Step 6: Choosing a Mailer

After testing the configuration, the next step is to choose your mailer. WP Mail SMTP offers two mailers: PHP mailer and SMTP mailer. The SMTP mailer is recommended for its reliability, security, and reduced risk of ending up in spam folders or junk mail.

To choose the SMTP mailer, go to the WP Mail SMTP settings page, navigate to the ‘Mailer’ tab, select the ‘SMTP’ option, and save the changes.

Conclusion:

WP Mail SMTP is a game-changer, enhancing email reliability and preventing spamming. With the above guide on how to set up the WP Mail SMTP plugin in WordPress, website owners can take email management to the next level. The plugin enables the use of external SMTP, which is secure, reliable, and easy to configure. Remember to test your configuration and choose the SMTP mailer for the best email delivery experience.