Exchange Connection Problems

How to Find the SMTP Server Name and Port for Your Email Account

Natalie Taylor Oct 12, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to find the correct SMTP host name, port number, and encryption settings to properly configure an outgoing email account.

Find the SMTP Server Name and Port for Your Email Account

Product: Microsoft 365 / Exchange
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Setting up a third-party email client or application to send emails via an existing provider's SMTP server.
Observed behavior: The user requires specific server configurations because the email client cannot automatically connect to the outgoing server.

Before you start

Identify your email service provider (such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or a custom domain host) and ensure you have your correct email address and account password ready.

Solution 1Recommended

Check Your Email Provider's Official Documentation

Use this method to find the exact SMTP settings required by your specific email hosting provider.

Because every email hosting provider uses completely different server configurations, there is no universal SMTP setting. The most reliable way to find your required details is directly through your provider.

Identify your email provider

Determine who hosts your email account (e.g., Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Yahoo, or your ISP).

Search the help center

Navigate to your provider's official support website and search for 'SMTP server settings' or 'IMAP/POP configuration'.

Locate the exact details

Write down the Outgoing Server Name (SMTP), the Port Number (usually 587 or 465), and the required Encryption Method (TLS/SSL).

Check Your Email Provider's Official Documentation

Modern Email Clients: Most modern email clients only require you to enter your email address and password, automatically retrieving these complex settings behind the scenes.

Solution 2

Apply Default Microsoft 365 SMTP Settings

Use these standardized settings if you are trying to configure an email client specifically for a Microsoft 365 or Office 365 account.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common SMTP port to use?

Port 587 is the recommended default port for SMTP connections utilizing TLS encryption. Port 465 is also widely used by many providers for older SSL encryption standards.

Why is my Microsoft 365 SMTP connection failing even with correct settings?

Your Microsoft 365 administrator might have disabled 'SMTP AUTH' for your specific mailbox, or your organization has 'Security Defaults' enabled which intentionally blocks legacy authentication protocols to improve security.

Can I use port 25 for my SMTP server configuration?

While port 25 is the historical default for SMTP routing, it is frequently blocked by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and cloud networks to prevent spam. It is highly recommended to use port 587 instead.

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