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What is rsmtp.ku.edu

RSMTP is an SMTP mail server customized especially for ResNet use. Previously, all outgoing email was blocked unless it was sent from WebMail, Microsoft Exchange or a web-based service. Since users expressed interest in using other mail clients like Apple Mail, a special SMTP service has been developed for ResNet.

RSMTP service will require a specific setup and also requires authentication with your KU Online Id and password. In addition, RSMTP encrypts all traffic for added security. These extra steps for setup and authentication are required to keep spammers from using ResNet SMTP services to send spam and transmit viruses.
How to Use rsmtp.ku.edu

Using Outlook Express
Note: It is not required that you use Microsoft Outlook, but since it is the predominant windows e-mail client, it is what will be demonstrated. Keep in mind for setting up other e-mail clients that the two main bits of information are the server addresses. At KU ...

the IMAP server address is imap.ku.edu (used to receive e-mail)
the SMTP(outgoing) server address is rsmtp.ku.edu (used to send e-mail)
Part 1: Creating an IMAP profile. If one exists already, jump to Part 2.
  1. Launch Outlook Express
  2. From the menu, choose Tools-->Accounts

  3. Select the Mail tab.
  4. Choose Add-->Mail

  5. Type your real name in the Display name box. Other users will see what you type here when you send them a message.
  6. Next.

  7. Type your KU e-mail address in the E-mail address box. This address must match the address you have selected as your "from" address or your messages will not be accepted by the server. If you are unsure of what address is your "from" address, go to: https://www.aims.ku.edu/services.shtml

    Note that rsmtp.ku.edu only works with KU Exchange e-mail accounts. You can not use this service to send mail from 3rd party (yahoo.com, etc) accounts.
  8. Click Next.

  9. Select IMAP as the type of your incoming mail server.
  10. Enter imap.ku.edu for the address of the incoming server.
  11. Enter rsmtp.ku.edu as the address of the outgoing mail (SMTP) server.
  12. Click Next.

  13. Enter your Online ID in the Account name box.
  14. Enter your Exchange e-mail password in the Password box.
  15. If you would like Outlook Express to remember your password, check the Remember password box. NEVER use this option if you share your machine with other users.
  16. Click Next.

  17. Click Finish. This is the end of part 1.



  18. Part 2: Setting your mail client to provide secure, authenticated mail services.

    If you already have a properly configured KU mail account that uses IMAP to connect to your Exchange server, start here.

  19. Use the mouse to select your IMAP-based KU Exchange e-mail account.
  20. Choose Properties.

  21. Verify that the information listed here is correct. You may change the name by which you refer to this account (imap.ku.edu, in the example to the left) if you like.
  22. Click on the Servers tab.

  23. Place a check in the box next to My server requires authentication.
  24. Click on Settings.

  25. Verify that Use same settngs as my incoming mail server is selected.
  26. Choose OK.

  27. Select the Advanced tab
  28. Place a check in the box next to This server requires a secure connection (SSL) under the Outgoing mail (SMTP): box. The number in that box will NOT change.
  29. Place a check in the box next to This server requires a secure connection (SSL) under the Incoming mail (IMAP): box. The number in that box will change from 143 to 993. If you do not do this step, your username and password will the sent across the network in clear text.
  30. Click OK.
  31. Click Close.


Using Apple Mail
  1. Open Apple mail and choose Mail --> Preferences.

  2. This window will open:
  3. Click the plus sign in the lower left corner to add an account.
  4. Enter the information in the format above.
  5. Next click on Server Settings

  6. Configure your smtp server as shown.
  7. Click OK and then close the preferences window.
  8. You will be prompted to save changes. Save your changes, and you are ready to send email from your ResNet Connection.
You have now completed the steps necessary to use rsmtp.ku.edu. Enjoy!