Sendmail

Self-Hosted

Legacy open-source Mail Transfer Agent for email routing

Overview

Sendmail is a legacy, open-source Mail Transfer Agent (MTA) that routes and delivers emails via SMTP. It supports aliasing, forwarding, filtering, and integration with MDAs like Procmail. Deployment requires configuring text files (e.g., sendmail.cf, aliases) on Unix-like systems, offering granular control for advanced users. While less user-friendly than modern MTAs, its robustness and long-standing presence make it reliable for legacy environments needing customizable email flow management.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  sendmail:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: sendmail
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

SMTP-based email routing
Advanced aliasing/forwarding
Highly customizable config
Legacy system compatibility

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Sendmail hard to install?

Yes, Sendmail requires manual configuration of text files like sendmail.cf, which demands familiarity with Unix-like systems and email protocols—making it challenging for beginners.

? Is it a good alternative to Microsoft Exchange?

Sendmail is a lightweight, open-source alternative for email routing but lacks Exchange’s integrated collaboration features (calendars, contacts). It’s ideal for users needing a simple, customizable MTA without SaaS extras.

? Is Sendmail completely free?

Yes, Sendmail is open-source under the permissive Sendmail License, allowing free use, modification, and distribution for any purpose.

Top Alternatives

Microsoft Exchange Server Search Google

IBM Domino Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - Email - Mail Transfer Agents

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Granular control over email flow
⊕ Proven reliability in legacy setups

Cons

⊖ Complex text-based configuration
⊖ Steeper learning curve than modern MTAs