WordPress Hosting, Blog Hosting, SMTP
The Basics of SMTP
SMTP is short for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol and is a type of outgoing mail server. Due to the difficulty with maintenance, most web hosting providers do not offer access to simple mail transfer protocols. Also, they can be extremely difficult to defend against hackers and malicious users. Many web hosting companies are also trying to cut corners to save money so SMTP is one of the first areas to eliminate.
The most common email systems can be broken down into two functions:
SMTP
POP3
When combined, these two protocols allow users to send and receive email messages across the internet. SMTP performs the functions necessary to send a message from one point or address to another. As a user is sending a message, SMTP confirms that the sender has the right to do so. Then the system sends the outgoing message. If the mail is undeliverable, SMTP sends an email back to the sender notifying them of the failure.
The majority of email systems utilize SMTP to send messages between servers. POP3 or IMAP platforms are then used to retrieve those send messages on the other end. SMTP is also used to send email messages from a mail client to a mail server. These are the reasons for specifying the SMTP and POP3 or IMAP servers when configuring your email client.
Configuring the application correctly will identify which SMTP server is being used for sending outgoing messages and which POP3 or IMAP server is used for receiving messages. To complete this task properly, give your email client access to the SMTP server by stating your IP address.
The user never sees any of these transactions as they are all behind the scenes. The user simply clicks the send button or opens the email and the transfer is complete. With the emergence of IMAP email system technology, SMTP may not be necessary in some cases as it handles both sending and receiving of email messages.
Like POP3, SMTP has been around for quite awhile, specifically since the mid 1980’s. As technology is improving, the need for these types of systems may be diminishing and making way for one that completes all tasks. For instance, the IMAP technology is implementing aspects of POP3 and SMTP and combining them into one easy-to-use package.
The concept behind SMTP working in conjunction with POP3 is simple: one sends the messages and one receives them. Although the mechanics in the coding of these systems can be complex, it makes life much easier for those using an email client.
The Basics of Starting a Blog
In order to host your first blog, you must plan thoroughly as there are so many different options available. Some bloggers host their own site, while others host from their computer. The latter method saves money and allows for complete customization and control. Despite these few advantages, web hosting has become inexpensive so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
Free Blogging Software
The majority of blog owners choose WordPress for their blogging software. WordPress provides endless features and is free. The program is resource-intensive but usually isn’t an issue unless the site receives a high volume of traffic.
The installation of WordPress is a breeze, even for a newbie to the blogging industry. If this proves to be too difficult, there are free blogging services offered at WordPress.com and Blogger.com. A major advantage of these two sites is they are easily indexed by search engines so all information is available during a search very quickly.
Make it an Experience
The whole process of blog creation and hosting is an experience. You take different steps and build on those that precede them. Nothing in the blogging process is permanent so feel free to experiment with different combinations of features. Also, adding high-quality content is the key to having your blog be viewed by many visitors.
Treat your blog as something that’s important but not complex. Little technical knowledge is needed to start a blog; you just need an idea, commitment and a computer. Once you have the site running, it’s up to you where you want to take it. Many individuals blog to release frustrations, discuss an important topic or monetize their site in an attempt to make money.
Once you acquire your first reader and begin to build a subscriber base, you’ll be on the right path toward achieving your goals. As traffic increases, consider upgrading your hosting plan to accommodate.
An Overview of the Steps
To get started, register your own domain name, and don’t use a free service. This allows for complete control over every aspect of your blog. Begin with a shared hosting plan. As traffic increases, inquire with your provider the hosting plan to switch too and take it from there.
Luckily there are numerous sources available on the internet that can answer almost any question you have. It’s advantageous to register at blogging forums like on WordPress.com because there are many advanced bloggers that can further assist you. Whichever decision you make, blogs generate an exorbitant amount of traffic so your ideas will be viewed by thousands of visitors.