iRedMail
Self-HostedOpen-source, full-featured self-hosted mail server solution
Overview
iRedMail is an open-source mail server stack that simplifies deploying a secure, production-ready email system. It bundles Postfix (SMTP), Dovecot (IMAP/POP3), Roundcube (webmail), SpamAssassin (spam filtering), ClamAV (antivirus), and supports MySQL, PostgreSQL, or LDAP backends. Installation is automated via scripts for Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, and CentOS, with Docker images available for quick deployment. It includes email authentication (DKIM, SPF, DMARC), CardDAV/CalDAV support, and a web admin panel for managing domains and users.
Self-Hosting Resources
Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml.
⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.
version: '3'
services:
iredmail:
image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
container_name: iredmail
ports:
- "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
volumes:
- ./data:/app/data
restart: unless-stopped Key Features
- All-in-one mail server stack with core components included
- Supports multiple backends (MySQL, PostgreSQL, LDAP)
- Built-in spam filtering and antivirus protection
- Webmail and admin panel for easy management
- Email authentication (DKIM, SPF, DMARC) support
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is iRedMail hard to install?
iRedMail’s automated scripts make basic installation straightforward—most users can set it up in minutes on supported Linux distros. Docker images are also available for even easier deployment. However, customizing advanced features (like integration with other tools) requires some technical expertise.
? Is it a good alternative to Google Workspace?
Yes, for users prioritizing data control and privacy. It provides core email, webmail, and calendar/contacts features, but lacks Google’s collaborative tools (Docs, Sheets) unless integrated with apps like Nextcloud. It’s ideal for those who want a self-hosted alternative without proprietary lock-in.
? Is iRedMail completely free?
Yes—iRedMail is open-source under the GPLv3 license, so it’s free to use, modify, and distribute. There are no hidden costs, though you may pay for server hosting, domain names, or optional premium support from the iRedMail team.
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Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Privacy-focused (full control over your email data)
- ⊕ No subscription fees
- ⊕ Automated installation reduces setup time
- ⊕ Extensive documentation and active community
- ⊕ Compatible with popular email clients
Cons
- ⊖ Requires server maintenance and updates
- ⊖ Advanced configuration needs technical knowledge
- ⊖ Major version upgrades can be complex
- ⊖ Lacks native collaborative tools (needs integration with Nextcloud etc.)