How to Set Up Outgoing Email

Overview

UserDeck offers flexible options for sending outgoing emails to your customers. You can:

• Option 1: UserDeck’s built-in mail server -

• Option 2: Connect your Gmail account -

• Option 3: Configure your custom SMTP server -

Gmail Benefits:

• Improved Deliverability: Leverage Google’s trusted infrastructure.

• Automatic Configuration: No need for manual SMTP setup.

• Secure Authentication: OAuth ensures secure access to your Gmail account.

Boosting Deliverability: SPF, DKIM & DMARC

Regardless of which email option you choose, configuring these DNS records will help your emails reach your customers’ inboxes:

• SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Confirms which servers are allowed to send emails for your domain.

• DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Adds a cryptographic signature to validate the sender and content.

• DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance): Adds rules and reporting to prevent spoofing and phishing.

This guide walks you through each method and explains the importance of setting up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to improve email deliverability and protect your domain.

Choosing Your Outgoing Email Method

To get started, go to the Settings menu and open the Outgoing Email tab. You’ll see three options:

Option 1: UserDeck Mail Server (Default)

This is the quickest and easiest way to start sending emails. No configuration is required.

Note: For best results, we highly recommend configuring SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to align with our UserDeck service.

Step 1 - Configure your domain's SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records with UserDeck

Option 2. Connect Your Gmail Account (Recommended)

Using your Gmail account improves deliverability and simplifies setup.

Step 1 - Connect Gmail to UserDeck:

1. Select the Gmail option.

2. Click Connect Gmail Account.

3. Follow the on-screen steps to log in with your Google account and authorize UserDeck.

Step 2 - Set Up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC with Gmail (if you haven't already)

Verifying Your Domain - After adding your DNS records, click Verify Domain in UserDeck. The system will check and confirm your setup.

Option 3: Use a Custom Mail Server

Ideal for advanced users who need full control over outgoing email.

Step 1 - Get your SMTP Credentials from your Email Service

Step 2 - Set Up your Custom SMTP in UserDeck:

1. Choose Custom Mail Server.

2. Enter the following details:

   • SMTP Host: Your server’s hostname or IP

   • SMTP Port: Usually 25, 465, or 587

   • Username & Password: SMTP login credentials

   • Encryption: TLS is recommended

3. Click Save SMTP Settings.

Important Tips:

• Double-check all SMTP details for accuracy.

• Ensure your server accepts connections from UserDeck.

• Make sure your firewall allows traffic on the chosen SMTP port.

Step 3 - Set Up Your SPF, DKIM, and DMARC with your Custom Email Service (if you haven't already)

Setting Up SPF & DKIM with UserDeck Mail Server

To configure these records:

1. Log in to your DNS provider (usually your domain registrar or hosting provider).

2. Add the DNS records provided by UserDeck:

   • Type: TXT

   • Name: e.g., @ or mail

   • Value: The SPF or DKIM string from UserDeck

3. Check your verification status inside UserDeck.

⏱ Note: DNS changes can take a few minutes to propagate.

For DMARC setup, refer to our dedicated guide, as it involves additional configuration.

You're All Set

Once you've completed these steps, your outgoing email system will be secure, reliable, and optimized for deliverability.

Still need help? Contact our support team — we're here for you.