Windows – IIS SMTP Service Routing Outbound Mail

iissmtpwindows

Regarding the SMTP service that is including in Microsoft's Internet Information Services (IIS) 6.0.

I have it in my mind that the built-in SMTP service is not capable of routing outbound messages, except to spcific domains that have to be manually specified. However, I've just had a conversation with someone that has challenged my understanding. I've looked at various articles on the web and they are only confusing me more.

So, can anyone categorically state whether or not the IIS SMTP service can be used as a general purpose relay for outbound mail? For example, can I set up a web site that uses it to send outbound mail and the SMTP service will go out and look up the MX records for the recipient and route the email?

Best Answer

Yes, the SMTP service in IIS is capable of full end-to-end delivery. In order for it to function this way, the following requirements must be met:

  • The server needs to be on a routable IP address (ie not an IP address in one of the reserved private ranges)
  • The DNS settings on the server need to be configured properly so it can resolve MX records of the recipient domains properly
  • You need to clear out the "smart host" setting. Find this by right-clicking on the SMTP server in the IIS Admin console, select Properties, select the "Delivery" tab, click the "Advanced" button, and you will see the space for entering a smart host.
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