Send Email from WordPress using SMTP Authentication

By default, WordPress uses the PHP mail() function to send emails. This method is unreliable and often results in emails being marked as spam or not delivered at all. To ensure secure and reliable email delivery, configure WordPress to send emails using SMTP authentication.

Step 1: Install a SMTP Plugin

WordPress does not include SMTP settings by default. To enable SMTP, you need to install a plugin. We recommend WP Mail SMTP, one of the most popular and actively maintained plugins.

Download it from the official WordPress repository: WP Mail SMTP Plugin

Step 2: Configure WP Mail SMTP

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Plugins → Add New.
3. Search for WP Mail SMTP and click Install Now.
4. Activate the plugin after installation.
5. Navigate to Settings → WP Mail SMTP.
6. Enter your SMTP server details (e.g. mail.plesk-secure.com).
7. Set the SMTP port (usually 465 for SSL/TLS or 587 for STARTTLS).
8. Enable authentication and enter your full email address and password.
9. Save changes and send a test email to confirm the setup.

Step 3: Verify Email Delivery

Use the plugin’s built-in test email feature to confirm your configuration. If the test email arrives successfully, WordPress is now sending emails via SMTP.