Sending Email from WordPress with SMTP Authentication
By default, WordPress sends email using the built‑in PHP mail function, which is unreliable and often blocked by spam filters. To ensure your website can send email successfully, you should configure WordPress to use authenticated SMTP instead.
Recommended Plugin
We recommend using the WP Mail SMTP plugin to enable SMTP authentication in WordPress.
You can download it from the official WordPress plugin directory:
https://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/wp-mail-smtp/
Why Use SMTP Instead of PHP Mail?
- SMTP uses proper authentication, improving deliverability.
- Reduces the chance of emails being flagged as spam.
- Works reliably with external mail servers (e.g. Fast2host, Microsoft 365, Gmail).
- Allows encrypted connections (SSL/TLS) for secure sending.
Using SMTP ensures your WordPress site can send contact form messages, order confirmations, password resets and other notifications without issues.
How to Configure WP Mail SMTP
After installing and activating the plugin:
- Go to WP Mail SMTP → Settings
- Enter your SMTP host (mail server address)
- Choose the correct port and encryption (SSL/TLS)
- Enter your SMTP username and password
- Save your settings
The plugin includes a built‑in email test tool so you can confirm everything is working correctly.
Common SMTP Settings
These values vary depending on your email provider, but typically include:
- SMTP Host: mail.yourdomain.com
- SMTP Port: 465 (SSL) or 587 (TLS)
- Authentication: Enabled
- Username: Your full email address
- Password: Your mailbox password
If you're unsure which settings to use, Fast2host support can provide the correct SMTP details for your domain.
Learn More About Fast2host
Fast2host has been providing reliable UK hosting, domains, cloud servers and business email since 2002. Find out more about who we are:
About Fast2host →