How to install and set up the Postie plugin

What is Postie?

A plugin is an add-on that gives WordPress a new feature. Postie checks a special email inbox. When it finds a new email, it turns that email into a post. The subject becomes the title. The message becomes the content.

Before you start

Make a new email address just for posting. Do not use your personal inbox, because Postie may delete emails after it reads them. You will need these details for that mailbox:

• The mail server name
• The connection type, POP3 or IMAP. These are two ways of reading mail from a server.
• The port number
• The email address and password

You find these details in your welcome email, or you can ask Hostvento support.

Install the plugin

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Plugins and then Add New.
3. Type Postie in the search box.
4. Click Install Now on the Postie result.
5. Click Activate.

Set up the mailbox

1. In the left menu, open Settings and then Postie.
2. Click the Mailserver tab.
3. Pick the protocol, POP3 or IMAP. Choose the secure version (with SSL) if your mail host supports it.
4. Type the port number and the mail server name.
5. Type the email address and the password.
6. Click Save Changes.
7. Click the Test Config button, if shown, to check the connection.

Choose who can post

1. Open the Users tab in the Postie settings.
2. Pick the default author for new posts.
3. Turn on the option that only allows known senders. This stops strangers from posting on your site.

Send a test post

1. From your email account, send a short message to the new address.
2. In Postie settings, check how often it looks for mail. WordPress checks by schedule, so it may take a few minutes.
3. Open Posts to see your new post.

If the connection fails, check the details again or open a support ticket.

Quick recap

• Postie turns emails into WordPress posts.
• Use a separate mailbox for it.
• Enter the mail server details under Settings and then Postie.
• Allow only trusted senders and test with a draft.