How to Set Up Your Own Mail Server on a VPS

Want to take full control of your email by hosting it yourself? In this hands-on course, you'll learn how to set up and manage your own mail server on a Virtual Private Server (VPS). Whether you're a developer, sysadmin, or tech enthusiast, this course will walk you through every step—from purchasing a VPS and configuring DNS, to installing Postfix, Dovecot, and securing your server with SSL/TLS, spam protection, and more.

By the end of the course, you’ll have a fully functioning, secure, and private mail server capable of sending and receiving email just like any commercial service, but fully under your control.

You'll also gain a deeper understanding of how email works behind the scenes, including SMTP, IMAP, and DNS records. Plus, you'll learn best practices to improve deliverability and keep your messages out of spam folders. The course also includes optional lessons on integrating a webmail interface for administration.

What You'll Learn:

• Choosing the right VPS provider and domain

• DNS setup (MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC)

• Installing and configuring Postfix and Dovecot

• SSL/TLS setup for secure connections

• Tips for keeping your mail server out of the spam folder

Take ownership of your email infrastructure and gain valuable sysadmin skills in the process!