What is the best OS option for an email server?

Linux is a well-reputed and popular open-source operating system or a kernel that many businesses and individuals use. However, there are numerous Linux distributions, or you can say distros, which are developed using the Linux kernel. Some of the most famous ones include CentOS, Ubuntu, and Debian.

Despite these three being a Linux distro, they vary from one another in terms of their features. As specified, businesses use Linux distros, they rely heavily on Linux email servers to communicate with their clients.

However, sometimes enterprises are not aware of the best mail server for Linux they should use for Linux distros. It is why today we will discuss the 7 best Mail Server for Linux distros.

What is the best OS option for an email server?

There are plenty of OS that you can use for email servers. However, if you are interested in a reliable open-source operating system, then the top choices are Ubuntu, Debian, and CentOS.

1.     CentOS

CentOS is a top-notch Linux distro and is user-friendly as well. CentOS consists of numerous protective layers. And security features such as SELinux are integrated into it that ensure that your email server remains free from viruses and increasing cyberattacks. Moreover, CentOS also automatically updates as soon as they are available on RedHat. It means, with CentOS, your system continues to function at its optimal level.

CentOS also offers versatile packet managers such as YUM, which offers great flexibility to accomplish some complicated tasks at once. CentOS-based email servers also support virtualization. Hence, with CentOS, you do not have to worry about storage shortages and advanced functionalities.

2.     Ubuntu

Like CentOS, Ubuntu is also less prone to viruses and malware. But offers a high level of customization. It means you can add or remove the things that you want. Moreover, to install Ubuntu, you do not need to have a pc with a high-end processor or tons of RAM, which is beneficial for small-scale business owners.

The best part about Ubuntu is that it has many pre-installed drivers that allow you to run the OS smoothly on your Linux email server.

3.     Debian

Debian features high stability and high-end packet management. Most of the operations are executed via a single command, which saves both time and effort. The integrated tools also make sure that users know when a system update is required.

In addition, packages are pre-configured to ensure that all the apps work well and without any inconvenience. However, you can also configure the pre-configured packages to meet your requirements.

 

Best choice for mail server under Linux distros

Are you looking for the best mail server for Linux? Check out these 7 most popular ones.

Sendmail

Sendmail is one of the widely used mail servers or message transfer agents based on UNIX platforms. Sendmail is now officially known as Proofpoint. This email transferring agent is ideal to be used for personal use as well as commercial use. Sendmail consists of plentiful email or message delivery methods to the clients’ computers based on Linux.

Features of Sendmail are given belwo

  • You do not need very high-speed internet.
  • Easy and precise configuration
  • Convenient delivery of messages
  • Quick, as Sendmail uses configuration files to control mail configuration.

Exim

Exim has many integrated functionalities with added cross-platform support, which makes emailing more versatile and diverse for businesses. The performance of this mail server is exceptional and outraces any other UNIX-based mail server. Moreover, the built-in log functions, such as main log, panic log, and reject log, ensures maximum safety.

Features of Exim are below

  • Frequent updates and bugs resolved.
  • A high degree of customization.
  • Local scan function
  • Message filtering and processing
  • Pre-built support for MYSQL, Redis, Oracle DB, and SQ lite.

Postfix

Suitable for both routing and delivering messages to a Linux-based recipient, Postfix has state-of-the-art functionalities. Postfix is also known as VMailer. However, not many people know about this. Postfix is written in the C programming language so; it is pretty fast and easy to use Linux server.

Some features are given below.

  • Provides flexible, versatile, and reliable running, which makes it one of the best UNIX-based OS.
  • Built-in security tools provide added security against viruses and spambots.
  • Additional filtering
  • Powerful virtual domain. And a variety of database management system support, including LDAP, CDB, MYSQL, PostgreSQL, and more.

Axigen

Apart from a Linux-based MTA, this MTA also works on Windows OS and allows you to have remote access. The integrated features, such as a mailing list and cross-platform support, help businesses to have more innovative solutions. Some of the most popular features of this MTA are:

  • On-premises deployment type.
  • Built-in security defense mechanism to protect against malware.
  • Mobile WebMail and Web Admin interface.
  • Cutting-edge technology provides advanced tools and an address book to share contacts.
  • 60-day free trial

Citadel

Developed for Linux distros and BSD, Citadel has numerous functionalities such as a convenient address book, mailing list, quick messaging service, and more.

  • Standard service protocols include SMTP, POP3, IMAP, and XMPP.
  • All-in-one MTA
  • Easy to use control panel
  • The MTA uses the Berkley database to store all the information.

 

Horde

It is an innovative MTA that allows Linux users to interact with each other and collaborate to focus on a more goal-driven approach.

  • Advanced message filtering
  • Shareable bookmarks, calendars, and more.
  • Integrated speller checker.
  • All emails are encrypted using tools such as S/MIME and PGP.

Maildrop

Relatively new as compared to other UNIX-like MTA, Maildrop has some of the best email delivering methods and encryption tools.

  • Disposable email addresses.
  • Easy configuration
  • Faster delivery of messages.
  • Advanced in-built message (spam) filters.

This is the list of best mail server for Linux you need to know about.

✅ Review best option for each OS

All the above-specified are the best MTAs for Linux distros. However, there are some specific ones for Ubuntu, Debian, and CentOS.

Best mail server for CentOS

Postfix and Sendmail MTA are the best Mail Server for CentOS as they are easy to use and have great integrated security systems. Moreover, installing them both on CentOS is relatively easy as compared to Debian. In addition, Postfix is also a default MTA of CentOS.

Best mail server for Ubuntu

Postfix is the best Mail Server for Ubuntu, an open-source Linux-based OS as Postfix is the best STMP server with modern-day functionalities, and setting up an STMP server is easy on Ubuntu.

Best mail server for Debian

Exim is the best mail server for Debian as the new Debian OS has Exim pre-installed in them with all the necessary packages and updates. Moreover, as Debian and Exim are both easy to use, they are a perfect match for each other.

Final Remarks:

After figuring out the best mail server for CentOS, Ubuntu, and Debian, make sure to choose a reliable Linux VPS hosting. Choosing a VPS hosting would allow you to effectively manage your best mail server for Ubuntu and the best mail server for Debian in a more convenient way.