email server program

[oguevarra]

I'm looking at setting up an email server in my house. Does anyone know of a free email server program that is easy to setup.

[qmanchu]

I could list some free email servers but it will probably depend on what platform you plan on using it on.

[TommyBoomfiger]

how about something for a windows platform? either 2k or XP Pro. ive was thinking the same thing a few days ago.

[qmanchu]

Here are some freeware Windows-based mail server programs I'm aware of:

ArGoSoft Mail Server (http://www.argosoft.com/applications/mailserver/default.asp)

CommuniGate Pro Messaging Server (http://www.stalker.com/CommuniGatePro/)

Mercury Mail Transport System (http://www.pmail.com/overviews/ovw_mercury.htm)

EzMTS (http://www.ezmts.org/index.php)

ArGoSoft is a lite version, leaving out various features that the paid versions have. Also, CommuniGate Pro is free to use in "trial" mode as long as you want. However, make note that it will add a line or two to every outgoing message that you send while in trial mode.

I can't really comment on the ease-of-use of any of these products since I've never used them. However, without trying to sound condescending, let me remind you that setting up a email server, any email server, is not going to be as straightforward as, say, setting up an temporary FTP server with Serv-U. There's quite a bit more involved with the configuration -- on your side, with the server and clients as well as the Internet side, obtaining a domain name and modifying DNS records.

I'm sure that there are a few other freeware mail servers out there but these are the ones I researched about a year ago for a friend. In the end, he decided to let his hosting provider manage his email because he figured it was too much of a hassle.

However, if you're determined and have the time to figure it out, I'd say go for it. It would be a great learning experience. Good luck. :)