Custom Domain SMTP Configuration
This documentation guides you through setting up SMTP for a Custom Domain in Orkap. Follow these steps to authenticate your domain, configure DNS, create credentials, and connect your SMTP successfully.
Requirements to Setup Custom Domain SMTP
- Domain with DNS access
- SMTP server (self-hosted or third-party)
- Proper SMTP credentials
Configure DNS Records
Correct DNS configuration ensures maximum deliverability.
SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
Add a TXT record:
Name: @
Type: TXT
Value: v=spf1 include:your-smtp-service.com -all
DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
Generate a DKIM key pair in your SMTP service or on your server. Add a TXT record:
Name: selector._domainkey
Type: TXT
Value: v=DKIM1; k=rsa; p=PUBLIC_KEY
DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)
Add a TXT record:
Name: _dmarc
Type: TXT
Value: v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:[email protected]; ruf=mailto:[email protected]; pct=100
Obtain SMTP Credentials
Depending on your setup, you may need to create or retrieve SMTP credentials.
Self-Hosted SMTP
- Create a mail user or service account on your SMTP server.
- Record the username and password you assign.
Third-Party SMTP Service
- Log into the service dashboard.
- Navigate to SMTP credentials or API keys.
- Generate and copy your credentials.
SMTP Server Configuration Details
Use the following settings in your mail client or application:
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| SMTP Host | smtp.yourdomain.com |
| SMTP Ports | 25 (unencrypted), 587 (STARTTLS), 465 (SSL/TLS) |
| Encryption | STARTTLS (port 587) or SSL/TLS (port 465) |
| Authentication | Required |
| Username | [email protected] |
| Password | your-smtp-password or API key |
Verify Connectivity
Ensure that your server or local machine can reach the SMTP endpoint.
Telnet (unencrypted or to start TLS later)
telnet smtp.yourdomain.com 587
OpenSSL s_client (tests STARTTLS handshake)
openssl s_client -starttls smtp -connect smtp.yourdomain.com:587
You should see a 220 greeting and be able to issue SMTP commands like EHLO.
Test Email Delivery
After adding a mailbox in the Orkap dashboard, ensure the following steps are completed before sending any outreach email:
- Send a test message from your client or application
- Check SMTP server logs or your service dashboard for delivery activity
- Confirm the message arrives in your recipient’s inbox or spam folder