how to fix WordPress email not sending

Understanding the Issue with WordPress Emails Not Sending

When WordPress fails to send emails, it primarily stems from its default method of using PHP mail() function. Most hosting servers aren’t configured to use this method effectively, leading to undelivered or spam-foldered emails.

Check Your WordPress Hosting Server

Begin by confirming with your web host that their server supports the PHP mail() function. Some hosts require additional configuration or may advise using SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) instead, which is generally more reliable.

Utilize SMTP Instead of PHP Mail

SMTP bypasses the limitations of the PHP mail function by using proper authentication, which increases email deliverability. To set this up, you need:

1. SMTP Plugin Installation: Install a plugin like WP Mail SMTP by WPForms, which reconfigures WordPress to use SMTP instead of PHP mail().

2. Setup SMTP: After activation, navigate to the plugin settings. Input your SMTP host information, which you can get from your email provider or hosting company. Common SMTP hosts are Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, etc.

   • Email Address: The email you will send your site’s emails from.
   • SMTP Host: Your email provider’s SMTP server address.
   • SMTP Port: Typically 465 for SSL encryption or 587 for TLS encryption.
   • Encryption: Choose SSL or TLS based on your host’s requirements.
   • Authentication: Toggle this on and enter your SMTP username (email address) and password.

3. Sending Emails: With everything set up, send a test email from the plugin’s settings page to ensure everything is configured correctly.

Using Email Logging to Troubleshoot

If problems persist, consider using an email log plugin. These plugins keep a log of every email sent from your WordPress site, providing insights into any issues.

1. Install an Email Log Plugin: Plugins like WP Mail Logging by MailPoet can record every mail sent out, making it easier to figure out what happens after sending an email.

2. Review Log Entries: Look for any anomalies in the log entries, particularly those that didn’t successfully send.

Verifying SPF and DKIM Records

These are DNS settings that can greatly aid in increasing email deliverability:

• Sender Policy Framework (SPF): Helps mail servers verify that incoming mail from your domain is actually from your domain.
• DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM): Adds a digital signature to emails making them more trustworthy to recipient servers.

Add these records by accessing your domain’s DNS settings or consult your hosting provider.

Update WordPress and PHP

Outdated versions of WordPress and PHP can lead to numerous issues, including email sending problems. Keeping WordPress and PHP updated ensures compatibility and functionality:

1. Backup Your Website: Always backup before making substantial changes or updates.
2. Update WordPress: In the Dashboard, go to Updates and install any available updates.
3. Update PHP: Your web host typically allows you to update PHP via the hosting control panel.

Consult Developer Community Forums

If issues persist, turn to platforms like Stack Overflow, WordPress.org forums, or even Reddit. These communities can offer solutions tailored to your specific problem and configuration.

Monitoring Performance After Fixes

Once you’ve applied a fix, monitor your website and its email functionality through tools that simulate and track email delivery, like Mail-Testers or MXToolbox. These tools provide insights into whether your emails reach the inbox and help identify new issues.

Troubleshoot With Your Host

Sometimes, hosting environments have unique configurations or restrictions that can affect email delivery. Keep in contact with your host’s support team who can offer server-side insights.

Conclusion

Problems with WordPress not sending emails can hamper your website’s communication. By checking server configurations, using SMTP, logging emails, and ensuring web technologies are up-to-date, you restore and improve your WordPress site’s email functionality.