Mail Server

A mail server is software or infrastructure that sends and receives email using standard protocols: SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) for outbound delivery between servers, IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) for client synchronization, and POP3 (Post Office Protocol) for client download. Every domain that receives email must have at least one [[mx-record|MX record]] pointing to a mail server hostname. Mail server reputation — tracked by IP and sending domain — determines inbox placement. Proper authentication via [[spf-record|SPF]], [[dkim|DKIM]], and [[dmarc|DMARC]] records is mandatory to prevent [[domain-abuse|spoofing]] and maintain deliverability.