Mail Autodiscover Feature in Plesk Obsidian for Linux

The Mail Autodiscover feature in Plesk Obsidian for Linux is designed to simplify the process of configuring mail clients, such as Outlook, Thunderbird, and mobile devices. It automatically detects and configures the email server settings (IMAP, POP, SMTP) for a domain’s mail accounts, reducing manual input.

Key Points about the Mail Autodiscover Feature

1. Purpose of Autodiscover

The autodiscover feature helps end-users by automatically setting up their mail clients without the need to manually enter server settings (such as the IMAP/POP and SMTP server names, ports, and security settings). It simplifies email account configuration by automatically supplying the correct mail server details based on the user’s email address.

2. How Autodiscover Works

When a user adds their email account to a mail client, the client sends an Autodiscover request (usually to autodiscover.domain.com or domain.com/autodiscover/autodiscover.xml) to fetch the server configuration. The mail client receives the necessary settings, such as:

  • Incoming mail server (IMAP or POP).
  • Outgoing mail server (SMTP).
  • Port numbers and security settings (SSL/TLS).
  • Username and other optional settings.

3. Autodiscover for Domains in Plesk

In Plesk, Autodiscover is enabled by default for email services and can be managed per domain. Plesk creates DNS records for autodiscover.yourdomain.com and related services during domain setup to enable mail autodiscovery.

4. Protocols Supported by Plesk Autodiscover

IMAP, POP3, and SMTP server settings are supplied by the Autodiscover feature. It also supports SSL/TLS settings for secure mail communication.

5. DNS and SRV Records for Autodiscover

To ensure that Autodiscover works properly, Plesk creates DNS SRV records for the domain’s mail service. These records point mail clients to the correct servers for IMAP/POP and SMTP. The typical DNS SRV records created for Autodiscover are:

  • _autodiscover._tcp.yourdomain.com
  • _imaps._tcp.yourdomain.com
  • _pop3s._tcp.yourdomain.com
  • _smtps._tcp.yourdomain.com

6. Supported Mail Clients

Autodiscover works with various popular mail clients that support this feature, such as:

  • Microsoft Outlook (for automatic email account setup).
  • Mozilla Thunderbird.
  • Apple Mail.
  • Mobile devices like Android and iOS.

7. SSL/TLS and Autodiscover

Plesk ensures that mail autodiscovery can work over secure connections. When properly configured, clients will receive SSL/TLS settings, ensuring that the email communication is encrypted.

8. Customising Autodiscover

If you need to adjust or customise the Autodiscover behavior in Plesk (for instance, for a different domain setup or custom mail server), you can modify the DNS SRV records or Autodiscover configuration.

9. Troubleshooting Autodiscover

If Autodiscover is not working correctly:

  • Verify that the correct DNS SRV records are in place.
  • Ensure that your mail server’s SSL certificates are correctly configured.
  • Check your firewall settings to make sure the mail ports (IMAP/POP and SMTP) are open.
  • Test using the Microsoft Remote Connectivity Analyser to see if Autodiscover is working for your domain.

10. Enabling/Disabling Autodiscover

In some cases, you may want to disable Autodiscover for specific domains. You can do this by removing or adjusting the DNS records in the Plesk DNS settings.

Example of an Autodiscover SRV Record in Plesk

Here is an example of how an SRV record for autodiscovery might look in Plesk:

ServiceProtocolPriorityWeightPortTarget
_autodiscover_tcp00443autodiscover.yourdomain.com
_imaps_tcp00993mail.yourdomain.com
_smtps_tcp00465mail.yourdomain.com

How to Enable/Manage Autodiscover in Plesk

1. DNS Setup

Go to Domains > DNS Settings and ensure that the correct SRV and A records for Autodiscover are present.

2. Mail Server Settings

Ensure your mail server (Postfix/Dovecot) is correctly configured to support Autodiscover. You can check mail server settings in Tools & Settings > Mail Server Settings.

3. SSL Configuration

Ensure that SSL certificates for the mail server and Autodiscover domain are valid and properly set up.

Conclusion

The Mail Autodiscover feature in Plesk Obsidian for Linux simplifies the setup of email accounts by automatically detecting mail server settings and configuring mail clients accordingly. It works with popular clients like Outlook and Thunderbird and relies on DNS SRV records and proper mail server configurations. To ensure it works, ensure correct DNS, mail server, and SSL setups.

Web Hosting: How to Install WordPress

All UK Cheapest Web Hosting and Website Builder packages come with one-click WordPress installation support. The installation process is not as complex as you might think!

To install WordPress as a client using Plesk Obsidian for Linux, follow these steps:

Log In to Plesk:

  • Open your web browser and navigate to your Plesk control panel URL provided in your Web Hosting Settings email (usually https://your-domain-or-IP:8443).
  • Log in with your client or administrator credentials.

Access Your Domain:

  • Once logged in, click on the “Websites & Domains” tab.

Select the Domain:

  • Choose the domain where you want to install WordPress.

Install WordPress:

  • Scroll down to the “Web Applications” section.
  • Click on “View” under the “WordPress” option.

Install WordPress:

  • On the WordPress page, click the “Install” button.

Configure WordPress Installation:

  • You will be prompted to configure your WordPress installation:
    • Choose the version of WordPress you want to install.
    • Select the domain where you want to install WordPress.
    • Set the directory where WordPress will be installed (usually leave it empty to install in the root directory).
    • Enter a name for your WordPress website.
    • Create an administrator username and password.
    • Provide an administrator email address.
    • Configure additional settings like language and database prefix if needed.

Install WordPress:

  • Click the “Install” button to begin the installation process.

Completion and Access:

  • Once the installation is complete, you will see a confirmation message.
  • You can now access your WordPress site by going to your domain URL (e.g., https://your-domain.co.uk).

Login to WordPress Admin:

  • To access the WordPress admin dashboard, go to https://your-domain.co.uk/wp-admin.
  • Log in using the administrator username and password you created during installation.

Start Building Your Website:

You can now start customising your WordPress website, installing themes, plugins, and creating content through the WordPress admin dashboard.

That’s it! You have successfully installed WordPress using Plesk Obsidian for Linux. You can now build and manage your website with ease.

What are the 5 most popular email clients?

As of December 2023, the five most popular email clients were:

Microsoft Outlook: Widely used in the corporate world due to its integration with Microsoft Office Suite and advanced organizational capabilities. It offers a range of features including calendar, task management, and contact management. The official website for Microsoft Outlook is https://outlook.live.com/. This site is used for accessing Outlook as a webmail service. For more information about the Outlook application that’s part of the Microsoft Office Suite, you would visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/outlook/email-and-calendar-software-microsoft-outlook.

Gmail: Google’s free email service, popular for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with other Google services like Google Drive, Calendar, and Meet. It’s known for its robust spam filtering and substantial free storage space. The official website for Gmail, which is Google’s email service, is https://mail.google.com/. This URL takes you directly to the Gmail inbox if you’re already logged in, or to the login page if you’re not.

Apple Mail: The default email client for macOS and iOS devices. It’s popular among Apple product users for its simplicity, integration with iCloud, and synchronization across all Apple devices. Apple Mail is an application that comes pre-installed on Apple devices, so it doesn’t have a dedicated URL like web-based email services. For more information about Apple Mail, you can visit Apple’s official support page at https://support.apple.com/mail.

Yahoo Mail: Known for its large storage capacity and robust search capabilities. It offers a user-friendly interface and is integrated with Yahoo’s other services. The official website for Yahoo Mail is https://mail.yahoo.com/. This is where you can log in to your Yahoo email account, or get more information about the service.

Thunderbird: A free and open-source email client developed by the Mozilla Foundation. It’s known for its customization options, strong security features, and support for various add-ons. As a free and open-source email client, the official website for Mozilla Thunderbird is https://www.thunderbird.net/. This site provides download links for the software, as well as additional information and support resources.

These clients vary in terms of features, interface, and integration capabilities, catering to different user needs and preferences. The popularity of these email clients can vary based on the region and specific user groups.

SiteJet Website Builder

Build, design, manage, and grow competitive websites, no coding required!

Sitejet Builder is included in all UKC Shared Hosting plans and lets you create competitive websites quickly and effortlessly directly from your panel. It has all the tools you need for easy site building, no coding required.

  • Drag & drop on-page editor
  • Powerful design capabilities
  • AI-driven content creation
  • Integrated eCommerce solution
  • Included with UKC Web Hosting
  • Fully integrated in your panel

Design beautiful websites

Easily create professional websites without coding or hiring a designer. Pick a template, customise it with our drag & drop editor, and hit ‘publish’ to go live.

Design websites with
  • 140+ Designer-made templates
  • Full design flexibility
  • Corporate Identity Detection
  • Global design settings
Plesk SiteJet Builder

Offer great user experience

Create fast, responsive, and SEO-friendly websites that users and search engines adore. Launch websites built for top rankings and focused on conversions in no time.

  • Created timely and hassle-free
  • Competitive with integrated eCommerce solution
  • SEO-friendly for better rankings
  • Responsive and fast for great UX
  • Customizable with widgets
  • Multi-language for international success

Create content effortlessly

Writing compelling content is not your strong suit? Don’t worry, Sitejet Builder has got you covered. Create and embed AI-powered content directly into your site.

  • AI-driven Text Generator
  • Dynamic content collections
  • Free stock photos & videos

Free & fully integrated

Enjoy powerful site-building capabilities at no additional cost to your UKC Hosting service plan. Expand your business to new markets and build your own website.

  • Fully integrated into the Plesk panel
  • More value, same price
  • Stay competitive
Plesk SiteJet Extension

Start building websites directly in your Plesk panel Now

SiteJet SiteBuilder is included in all UKC Shared Hosting Plans at no additional cost!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Sitejet Builder for Plesk, and how do I access it?

  • Sitejet Builder for Plesk is a fully integrated, easy-to-use website builder available directly in your UKC Plesk panel. You can access it by logging into your Plesk control panel and selecting Sitejet Builder.

2. Do I need coding skills to use Sitejet Builder?

  • No, you don’t need any coding skills. Sitejet Builder is designed for easy use with a drag & drop editor, making website building simple and intuitive.

3. Is Sitejet Builder included in all UKC hosting plans?

  • Yes, Sitejet Builder is included for free in all our shared hosting plans.

4. Can I create an eCommerce website with Sitejet Builder?

  • Absolutely! Sitejet Builder comes with an integrated eCommerce solution, allowing you to create competitive online stores effortlessly.

5. Are there templates available in Sitejet Builder?

  • Yes, there are over 140 designer-made templates with full design flexibility, making it easy to create professional websites without hiring a designer.

6. How does Sitejet Builder ensure my website is SEO-friendly?

  • Sitejet Builder creates fast, responsive, and SEO-friendly websites. It focuses on top rankings and conversions, ensuring your site is optimised for search engines and user experience.

7. Can I create content for my website if I’m not good at writing?

  • Yes, Sitejet Builder includes an AI-driven Text Generator and dynamic content collections, making it easy to create compelling content without being a skilled writer.

8. What kind of support does UKC offer for Sitejet Builder?

  • UKC provides full support for Sitejet Builder. Our team can assist with any questions or issues you may have, ensuring you make the most out of this powerful tool.

9. Is Sitejet Builder suitable for creating multi-language websites?

  • Yes, Sitejet Builder supports multi-language capabilities, allowing you to cater to a global audience and achieve international success.

10. How do I install Sitejet Builder on my Plesk panel?

  • Sitejet Builder is already available in your UKC Shared Hosting plan, simply login to your Plesk Panel to access the online builder.

Understanding Credits: A Guide for Our Clients

Introduction

We use WHMCS (Web Host Manager Complete Solution), a comprehensive client management, billing, and support solution for online businesses. One of its key features is the ability to handle account credits, offering flexibility and convenience for clients. In this article, we’ll explore how credits work in WHMCS, including how to add credit to your account and how it’s applied to your invoices.

Adding Credit to Your Account

  1. Log In to Your Client Account: Start by logging into your Client Area using your credentials.
  2. Navigating to Add Funds: Once logged in, navigate to the ‘Billing’ section, and you’ll find an option to ‘Add Funds’ or ‘Add Credit’.
  3. Entering the Amount: Here, you can specify the amount of credit you wish to add to your account. There’s often a minimum and maximum limit on the amount you can add at a time, which is set by the service provider.
  4. Completing the Payment: After specifying the amount, proceed to make a payment using your preferred payment method. This could be through credit cards, bank transfers, or other available options.
  5. Credit Confirmation: Once the payment is successfully processed, the credited amount will reflect in your account. You can view this under the ‘Billing’ section as your available balance.

How Credits Work in WHMCS

  1. Automatic Application to Future Invoices: The most significant advantage of adding credit to your account is its automatic application to future invoices. Once you have a credit balance, we will automatically use this balance to pay for your upcoming invoices. This process is seamless and requires no manual intervention, ensuring your services continue uninterrupted.
  2. Manual Application to Existing Invoices: If you have existing unpaid invoices at the time of adding credit, the system will not automatically apply these funds to those invoices. Instead, you need to apply the credit manually. To do this, open the invoice you wish to pay, and you will see an option to ‘Apply Credit’. Once applied, the invoice will update to reflect the payment made via the credit.
  3. Tracking Your Credit: You can always track your credit balance and its usage in the ‘Billing’ section of your Client Area. This transparency allows you to manage your funds effectively.
  4. Refunds and Credit: It’s also worth noting that in some cases, service providers may issue refunds as account credits. These credits can then be used in the same way as credits you’ve added yourself.

Conclusion

Credits in your Client Area offer a convenient way to manage payments and ensure uninterrupted service. By adding credit to your account, you gain the flexibility to automatically pay for future services without the need for manual payment each time. Remember, for any existing invoices, you’ll need to apply these credits manually.

This system not only simplifies the billing process but also gives you better control over your account management. As always, if you have any questions or need assistance with your account or credits, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I add credit to my account?

  • To add credit, log in to your client area, navigate to the ‘Billing’ section, and select ‘Add Funds’ or ‘Add Credit’. Enter the amount you wish to add, then complete the transaction using your preferred payment method. The credit will be available in your account once the payment is processed.

2. Will the credits I add automatically be used for my invoices?

  • Yes, any credit in your account will be automatically applied to future invoices when they are generated. This process is automatic and ensures your services are paid for without manual intervention.

3. Can I use credits to pay for existing unpaid invoices?

  • Yes, but it’s a manual process. For existing unpaid invoices, you need to open the invoice and select the option to ‘Apply Credit’. The invoice will then update to reflect the credit applied.

4. How can I check my credit balance?

  • You can view your credit balance by logging into your client area and looking under the ‘Billing’ section. Here, you’ll find details of your available credit and any past credit transactions.

5. What happens if I add more credit than I need for my current invoices?

  • Any extra credit will remain in your account and be automatically applied to your future invoices. This way, you can ensure that your account has a positive balance to cover upcoming service charges.