How to configure SMTP servers in Portal for ArcGIS for testing

Summary

This guide provides a step-by-step process for configuring SMTP servers in Portal for ArcGIS to send notifications to members. Follow these instructions for a quick test setup.

The included SMTP server examples are Gmail and Hotmail.

Procedure

1. Mail account setup: There are two methods, Gmail or Hotmail SMTP.
   • Gmail: Ensure your Gmail account has two-step verification enabled and create an app password. Note: The app password is required for this SMTP configuration, so keep it secure.
   • Hotmail: For Outlook or Hotmail SMTP to work, make sure that POP or IMAP access is enabled. For more details, refer to the Microsoft site: POP, IMAP, and SMTP settings for Outlook.com
2. Access ArcGIS portal settings.
   1. Log in to Portal for ArcGIS as an administrator. Navigate to Organization > Settings > Security.
   2. Under Email settings, select Manage email settings.
3. Configure email settings, fill in the following details in the Configure email settings form:
   • SMTP server address: smtp.gmail.com or smtp.office365.com
   • SMTP port: 587
   • Encryption method: STARTTLS
   • SMTP authentication: Optional (can be unchecked). If checked, provide your Gmail or Hotmail address and app password or Hotmail password.
   • From email address: Your Gmail or Hotmail address
   • From email address label: Optional

Example screenshot of the settings using Gmail SMTP:

4. Click Next to proceed.
5. Send a test email. Under the Send a test email section, enter a recipient email address for testing and click Send Email.

6. Confirmation: If the setup is successful, you will receive the message "Test email sent successfully." Additionally, check the recipient's mailbox for confirmation.