I've recently started to use Thunderbird Portable, but I am unable to send mail with it. I have no problem receiving mail but cannot use my provider's smtp server (which uses the same user name and password) to send mail. This problem exists anywhere I've tried (work, home, public, etc.) any suggestions? Thanks in advance!
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I get a message that sending mail failed, that my smtp server failed, either because it is unavailable or is not accepting SMTP connections. It advises that I verify my smtp settings.
This is odd because at home I can connect a few seconds before or after using the same settings with a copy of TB installed on my home pc.
or did you build it from scratch?
I built the profile from scratch. Copying seemed a little involved. I think I will try this first and then figure how to operate my own smtp server if possible.
many (most) ISPs don't offer authentication on SMTP service, but auth solely based on the originating IP.
Usually, your standard install would be configured to "just send", which would work as you were at home, and would explain why TBP cannot send even when you are at home.
Personally, I operate my own SMTP server, so I can guarantee that authenticated SMTP (over SSL) works perfectly in TBP as I use it all the time.
The error that you are describing suggests that the ISP is simply refusing the authenticated connection.
I'd suggest that you check the SMTP server hostname, port number, SSL/TLS requirements, and whether the provider supports auth or not.
Are there support resources for running one's own smtp server from a USB drive?
long answer, it isn't feasible to do so, since most mail servers blacklist most of the IP addresses you would be connecting from, so you couldn't actually send mail.
When I said that I run my own server, I actually meant on my permanently connected PC on a network at home that is always online and reachable. I auth to that, send the mail direct to it, and it then sends it out into the world via my (home) ISP. It wouldn't be the right way to go for the majority of people, but I'm a network admin and I've been doing this kinda thing for literally decades, now
Your best bet it talk to your ISP. Ask if they have any support for sending auth smtp mail. Some of them put it on a different port instead of 25 to ease passage through places like hotels where they run an smtp proxy on 25 to make it easier on their guests. (unless the guest tries to auth, when it fails as the proxy can't ID them *sigh*)
Thanks everyone. I think I'm going to try an inexpensive relay service for a month or so and see how that goes.
Digger