How to Set Up PowerMTA on Linode for Bulk Emailing

PowerMTA (PMTA) is a powerful mail transfer agent (MTA) used for sending high-volume emails. If you want to set up a bulk email server, Linode is an excellent cloud hosting provider. However, to send emails successfully, port 25 must be enabled, which is often blocked by default. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of configuring PMTA on Linode, enabling port 25, and obtaining a valid PowerMTA license.

Step 1: Deploy a Linode Server

1. Sign in to your Linode account.
2. Click on Create Linode and choose your preferred distribution (Ubuntu 20.04 recommended).
3. Select a plan based on your needs.
4. Configure SSH and set up your root password.
5. Deploy and boot the server.

Step 2: Enable Port 25 on Linode

Linode blocks port 25 by default to prevent spam. To unblock it:

1. Submit a request to Linode support, explaining that you are sending legitimate emails.
2. Alternatively, you can buy a pre-approved Linode port 25-enabled account from us: Linode/Akamai Cloud Port 25 Open accounts – Buy Now

Step 3: Install PowerMTA

1. Update your server:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Download PowerMTA (you need a license):

• Get a genuine PowerMTA license from us: PowerMTA Lifetime License – Buy Now

sudo apt install postfix mailutils -y

3. Install dependencies:

sudo apt install postfix mailutils -y

4. Upload and install PowerMTA:

dpkg -i PowerMTA-4.5r1.deb

Step 4: Configure PowerMTA

1. Open the PMTA configuration file:

nano /etc/pmta/config

2. Add SMTP settings, IP rotation, and DKIM authentication.

3. Save the file and restart PowerMTA:

systemctl restart pmta

Step 5: Verify and Test

• Check logs:

tail -f /var/log/pmta/log

• Send a test email using Telnet or MailWizz (see our next guide on Bulk Sending with MailWizz)

Conclusion

Setting up PowerMTA on Linode requires a valid license, port 25 access, and proper configuration. Need help? Get a pre-approved Linode port 25 account or a PowerMTA license from us today!