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. SMTP servers are essential components of email infrastructure, managing outbound mail delivery and often working in conjunction with other protocols like POP3 or IMAP for receiving mail.
Developers should learn about SMTP servers when building applications that need to send transactional emails (e.g., password resets, notifications), newsletters, or automated communications, as it provides a standardized way to handle email delivery. It's crucial for system administrators and DevOps engineers to configure and maintain SMTP servers to ensure reliable email services, prevent spam, and integrate with email marketing tools or customer relationship management systems.