SMTP Setup for Email Alerts

This page explains how to configure an SMTP server for sending email alerts. For best reliability and security, we recommend using an SMTP relay service (like SendGrid) using an API key.

SendGrid SMTP recommended ElasticEmail alternative Gmail (App Password) personal Yahoo (App Password) personal NetEase 163.com China

Security note

Avoid using your normal email account password. Use API keys (SendGrid) or App Passwords (Gmail/Yahoo) so you can revoke access anytime.

SendGrid SMTP (Recommended)

SendGrid is a reliable SMTP relay service. The original guide notes a free tier (100 emails/day) and recommends it because it uses an API key (easy to create/delete anytime). See the reference: SendGrid SMTP docs.

SMTP server

smtp.sendgrid.net

Port

25 / 465 / 587

Username

apikey

Password

API key password

SMTP server: smtp.sendgrid.net
PORT: 25 / 465 / 587
Username: apikey
Password: <your SendGrid API key>

Tip

Use TLS ports (usually 587) when possible. If your ISP blocks 25, switch to 587.

ElasticEmail (Alternative)

The original page mentions ElasticEmail is simple to set up, but may sometimes have delivery issues to Gmail or Yahoo, while Hotmail works fine. Visit: ElasticEmail.

Deliverability note

If you notice delivery problems, consider SendGrid or another SMTP relay. Provider reputation can affect inbox placement.

Gmail Setup (Use App Password)

Gmail requires an App Password instead of your normal Gmail password. Reference: gmass Gmail SMTP guide.

SMTP server

smtp.gmail.com

Port

465

Username / From

yourname@gmail.com

Password

App Password

SMTP server: smtp.gmail.com
PORT: 465
Username & Mail From: yourname@gmail.com
Password: <Gmail App Password>

Yahoo Setup (Use App Password)

Yahoo also requires an App Password. Reference: Kinsta Yahoo SMTP settings.

SMTP server

smtp.mail.yahoo.com

Port

465

Username / From

yourname@yahoo.com

Password

App Password

SMTP server: smtp.mail.yahoo.com
PORT: 465
Username & Mail From: yourname@yahoo.com
Password: <Yahoo App Password>

NetEase 163.com (China)

The original page links to a separate guide for NetEase (China) using a code instead of password: cnSMTP.htm.

Region note

If you’re sending from China-based mail services, follow the provider’s specific SMTP/auth steps in the linked guide.

More free SMTP server options

The original page links a list of free SMTP servers here: Free SMTP Servers.