By default, WordPress sends mail through PHP’s basic mail function, often with a From address like wordpress@yourdomain.co.uk that doesn’t exist. Receiving servers treat that with suspicion. Sending through a real mailbox fixes it.
1. Create a sending mailbox
Create website@yourdomain.co.uk (or similar) in E-mail Manager then E-mail Accounts. How to create an email account in DirectAdmin
2. Install an SMTP plugin
In Plugins → Add New, search for SMTP and install a well-maintained SMTP plugin with a large number of active installations. Configure it with “Other SMTP” as the mailer.
3. Enter the settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| From Email | website@yourdomain.co.uk |
| Force From Email | On |
| From Name | Your site name |
| SMTP Host | mail.yourdomain.co.uk |
| Encryption | SSL |
| SMTP Port | 465 |
| Authentication | On |
| Username | website@yourdomain.co.uk |
| Password | The mailbox password |
Use TLS with port 587 if SSL on 465 doesn’t connect.
4. Send a test
Use the plugin’s test email to send to an outside address, such as Gmail. In Gmail, Show original should show SPF and DKIM passing.
Contact forms
In your form plugin, set:
- From:
website@yourdomain.co.uk - Reply-To: the visitor’s email field
Never set From to the visitor’s address. Sending email from your website reliably
Keeping the password safer
Many SMTP plugins let you define the password in wp-config.php instead of the database. Use that option if offered.
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