Email Transfer Account SMTP Configuration

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between an SMTP Account and an SMTP Relay?
  An SMTP Account typically refers to a standard email account (like a personal Gmail or Outlook account) primarily used for low-volume, personal correspondence. An SMTP Relay (or email relay service) is a dedicated, specialized server infrastructure designed for high-volume, bulk sending (like marketing campaigns) with features for reputation management, authentication, and better deliverability. We strongly recommend using a dedicated Relay for marketing campaigns.
• Which Port should I use for a secure SMTP connection?
  The most commonly recommended secure ports are: Port 465: Used for the SMTPS protocol (SMTP over SSL/TLS). This is often the preferred choice for a fully encrypted connection. Port 587: Used for the STARTTLS protocol, which establishes a secure connection after the initial handshake. Always consult your specific SMTP provider's documentation to confirm the correct port and security protocol (SSL/TLS) they require.
• What happens if I exceed the Hourly or Daily Sending Limits?
  Exceeding the sending limits set by your SMTP provider (or the limits you set in Gerceus) is highly risky. Consequences often include: Account Suspension: Your SMTP account may be temporarily or permanently suspended by your provider. Blacklisting: Your sending IP address or domain may be added to spam blacklists, severely damaging your sender reputation. Poor Deliverability: Future emails may be automatically routed to recipients' spam folders. It is crucial to set limits in Gerceus based on the capacity guaranteed by your SMTP provider.
• Why did my test email fail even though I used the correct credentials?
  There are a few common reasons for connection failures: Firewall Block: Your network's firewall might be blocking the port Gerceus is trying to use (e.g., Port 465 or 587). Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If your provider (like Google or Microsoft) has 2FA enabled, you may need to generate a specific App Password for Gerceus instead of using your main account password. Security Settings: The SMTP provider might require you to explicitly enable "less secure app access" or enable the SMTP Relay feature in your account settings. Check with your email service provider's support for specific security requirements.