SMTP Server
An SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) server is a software application or service that handles the sending, receiving, and relaying of email messages over the internet using the SMTP protocol. It acts as a mail transfer agent, routing emails from senders to recipients by communicating with other SMTP servers. Direct SMTP servers refer to those configured to send emails directly without relying on third-party relay services.
Developers should learn to configure and use direct SMTP servers when building applications that require email functionality, such as sending transactional emails (e.g., password resets, notifications), newsletters, or automated reports. It's essential for scenarios where control over email delivery, customization, or avoiding third-party limits is needed, though it requires managing deliverability and spam filtering issues.