Configuring Your Sending Server in Postal

Introduction

Once your domain is set up and verified in Postal, the next step is configuring your sending server. This involves assigning IP addresses, setting up sending protocols, and optimizing the server for high deliverability. Proper configuration ensures your emails are sent reliably and avoid spam filters.

Step 1: Add a Sending Server

1. Log in to your Postal dashboard.

2. Navigate to the Sending Servers section.

3. Click on Add Sending Server.

4. Enter the following details:

   • Name: A descriptive name for your server (e.g., Primary SMTP Server).
   • IP Address: Enter the IP address dedicated to email sending.
   • Port: Typically, use port 25, 587, or 2525.
   • Protocol: Select SMTP.

5. Click Save to add the server.

Step 2: Configure IP Addresses

1. If you have multiple IP addresses for sending, navigate to the IP Addresses section within your Sending Server settings.
2. Add each IP address by clicking Add IP and entering the IP details.
3. Configure the sending server to rotate between these IPs (optional) to balance the load and improve deliverability.

Step 3: Configure SMTP Settings

1. Navigate to the SMTP Settings tab within your Sending Server configuration.

2. Set the following:

   • Authentication: Choose the method required for your SMTP server (e.g., username/password authentication).
   • Credentials: Enter the username and password for your SMTP server.
   • Secure Connection: Enable or disable SSL/TLS as required by your setup.

3. Save your changes.

Step 4: Assign the Sending Server to a Domain

1. Go to the Domains section in Postal.
2. Select the domain you want to use with the sending server.
3. Under Sending Servers, click Assign Sending Server.
4. Choose the server you just configured from the list.
5. Save the settings.

Step 5: Test the Sending Server

1. Navigate to the Test Emails section in the Postal dashboard.
2. Enter a recipient email address (e.g., your own) and click Send Test Email.
3. Check your inbox for the test email. If it doesn't arrive:
   • Ensure your SMTP settings are correct.
   • Verify your DNS records (SPF, DKIM, and rDNS).
   • Review Postal logs for any errors.

Step 6: Configure Sending Limits (Optional)

1. Navigate to the Limits section in the Sending Server settings.
2. Set limits for:
   • Emails per hour: To avoid overloading the server or triggering rate limits.
   • Emails per day: To manage overall sending capacity.
3. Save your limits.

Step 7: Monitor the Server

1. Go to the Server Logs section in Postal to monitor real-time logs of your email sending activity.
2. Look for issues such as bounces or failed deliveries.
3. Use this data to optimize your sending configuration and email content.

Best Practices for Sending Server Configuration

1. Use Dedicated IPs:
   A dedicated IP ensures your sending reputation isn’t affected by other users.

2. Warm Up Your IPs:
   Gradually increase your sending volume over time to build a positive sending reputation with ISPs.

3. Monitor Deliverability:
   Regularly check your server logs and use tools like MxToolbox to monitor blacklisting.

4. Follow Email Sending Guidelines:
   Avoid sending emails to purchased lists and ensure compliance with CAN-SPAM or GDPR regulations.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Server Not Responding: Ensure the IP and port are reachable. Check your firewall settings.
• Emails Rejected by ISP: Review bounce logs to identify the reason and adjust your sending practices.
• Low Deliverability: Check SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records and ensure your content isn’t flagged as spam.

Conclusion

Configuring your sending server in Postal is essential for ensuring reliable email delivery. By following these steps, you can optimize your setup and maintain a high sender reputation. Next, proceed to Article 4: Testing and Optimizing Your Postal Setup for best practices on validating and improving your email campaigns.