Setup & Configuration

Complete guide to setting up and configuring Mailtrap Email API/SMTP for your application. Follow these steps to start sending emails in production.

Quick start checklist

Get up and running with this essential setup checklist:

• Create your Mailtrap account

• Verify your sending domain

• Choose integration method (API or SMTP)

• Configure authentication

• Send your first email

Configuration steps

Sending Domain Setup The foundation of email delivery. Verify your domain ownership and configure authentication records (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) for optimal deliverability.

API Integration Modern RESTful API for programmatic email sending. Best for new applications and microservices architecture.

SMTP Integration Traditional SMTP protocol for universal compatibility. Works with any email library or legacy system.

Dedicated IP Gradually build your sending reputation. Essential for high-volume senders and dedicated IPs.

Choose your integration method

When to use API

Best for:

• Modern web applications

• Microservices architecture

• Cloud-native applications

• Real-time sending needs

• Advanced analytics requirements

Advantages:

• Faster performance

• Better error handling

• Detailed response data

• Webhook support

• Easier debugging

Example:

curl -X POST "https://send.api.mailtrap.io/api/send" \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_TOKEN" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "from": {"email": "[email protected]"},
    "to": [{"email": "[email protected]"}],
    "subject": "Test Email",
    "text": "This is a test email"
  }'

When to use SMTP

Best for:

• Legacy applications

• Email clients

• CMS platforms

• Standard libraries

• Minimal code changes

Advantages:

• Universal compatibility

• No code changes required

• Works with any language

• Familiar protocol

• Easy migration