Gmail SMTP Setup
If I had to name the most popular email provider, I'd say Gmail. Currently, it has around 2.8 to 3.2 billion active users across personal Gmail, G Suite, Google Workspace, and integrated platforms.
I'll now explain the various SMTP configuration options available for Google SMTP.
In general, Google offers three different types of SMTP configuration methods.
Standard Gmail SMTP: Suitable for personal and Workspace accounts.
Google Workspace SMTP: Perfect for sending high-volume email and authenticated sending.
Restricted Gmail SMTP: Only for internal use case, and no-auth is necessary.
Requirements for Google SMTP
Before you proceed with the following steps, I recommend checking whether you already have the following in place:
- A Google account - whether it's a free Gmail or part of Google Workspace
- Two-Step Verification is enabled - required for generating app passwords
- Admin console access - necessary for setting up Workspace SMTP relay (Not necessary for a normal Gmail account)
- Outbound ports 25, 465, and 587 open - must be accessible on your network
- DNS records for your domain - including SPF (
_spf.google.com), DKIM, and DMARC
Gmail SMTP Configuration Methods
Let's explore all three methods in a single table. It will give you a quick overview of the general SMTP configuration options available for your preferred setup. After the table, I'll walk you through each configuration with detailed screenshots.
| Method | Server Address | Port(s) | Encryption | Auth Required | Allowed Recipients | Sending Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Gmail SMTP | smtp.gmail.com | 465 (SSL), 587 (TLS) | SSL/TLS | Yes | Any external recipient | 500/day (free) - 2,000/day (Workspace) |
| Google Workspace SMTP Relay | smtp-relay.gmail.com | 25, 465, 587 | Optional TLS | IP whitelist or SMTP AUTH | Any address in Workspace domain | 10,000 recipients/user/day |
| Restricted Gmail SMTP | aspmx.l.google.com | 25 | None | No | Gmail & Workspace users only | Workspace per-user limits apply |
Standard Gmail SMTP Setup
Use this method when you want to send an email to others from your own Gmail account.
- Enable second-step verification from Google Security.
- Then click on this App Password link, or search for App Password in the search bar and click on the App Passwords option.
- You'll now see a screen like the one shown in the screenshot. Enter your app name (it can be anything) and click the "Create" button. Once you do, a popup will appear with your unique app password. Be sure to save this password securely in a document - you won't be able to view it again.
- In your app or client, set the outgoing server to
smtp.gmail.com. - Choose port 465 for SSL or 587 for TLS.
- Enter your full Gmail address and App Password as credentials.
- Finally, send a test email to check if everything is correct or not.
Google Workspace SMTP Relay
If you have a large team and are planning to do outreach on a massive scale for personal or clients, then Workspace SMTP Relay can be an ideal selection for you.
Admin Console Setup:
- Go to Apps -> Google Workspace -> Gmail -> Advanced Settings -> SMTP relay.
- Add a relay setting:
- Allowed senders: addresses in your domain
- Authentication: by IP or SMTP AUTH
- Encryption: require TLS (recommended)
- Whitelist your server IPs.
- Point your devices/apps to
smtp-relay.gmail.comon port 25, 465, or 587
Restricted Gmail SMTP Server Configuration
I would like to mention that you can only send email to Gmail or Workspace addresses while using this SMTP server configuration.
- SMTP server:
aspmx.l.google.com - Port: 25
- No TLS, no username/password required
- Keep in mind that your sending IP is allow-listed in the Admin Console and your SPF records include that IP to get a proper delivery rate.
That's everything about Gmail SMTP settings. If you don't have an SMTP server but want to try Orkap with your personalized setup, you can use the standard Gmail SMTP methods.
Since this method is free to use, you can send up to 500 emails per day - including replies. It's a great way to kickstart your cold email outreach journey with Orkap.
If you run into any issues during configuration, feel free to reach out to us. Our support team will gladly help you set up Gmail SMTP settings in your Orkap admin panel.