Self-Hosting Email Like It's 1984
19 hours ago
- #email-server
- #postfix
- #self-hosting
- Self-hosting an email server is useful for automating tasks like mailing lists, newsletters, or email verification APIs.
- Deliverability can be an issue with self-hosting, but the cost is practically free if you already self-host a website.
- Setting up Postfix and OpenDKIM is essential for basic mail delivery, with OpenDKIM needed for popular services like Gmail.
- TLS encryption requires an SSL certificate for the MX hostname, not for each email domain.
- DKIM, SPF, and DMARC records are necessary to prove email authenticity and improve deliverability.
- Reverse DNS (PTR record) can boost email server reputation but may require ISP cooperation.
- Testing email delivery with Gmail confirmed successful setup with TLS encryption and passing SPF, DKIM, and DMARC checks.
- Future plans include using Python to build useful email applications.