# Set up the Default SMTP Server as an Email Server

Cloud Voice needs an email server so it can send system messages such as voicemail-to-email, fax-to-email, and system alerts. The simplest option is the built-in SMTP server (SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, the standard used to send email between servers). This page shows how to select the built-in server and confirm that mail goes out correctly.

:::note
Choosing the built-in SMTP server means Cloud Voice sends email through its own mail server. You do not have to supply a host name, port, username, or password. This is the alternative to configuring a custom (external) SMTP server such as your own Gmail or Microsoft 365 mailbox.
:::

## Configure the email server

1. Sign in to the PBX (Private Branch Exchange) web portal and open **System > Email > Email Server**.
2. Open the **Type of Email Server** drop-down list and choose **Built-in SMTP Server**.

:::caution
The email server you set here is used for **all** outgoing system email from Cloud Voice, not just one feature. Changing the type switches the sender for voicemail-to-email, fax-to-email, and alerts at the same time, so make the change during a quiet period and test it right away.
:::

## Send a test email

Before you rely on the built-in server, confirm that it can actually deliver mail.

1. Click **Test**.
2. In the dialog that appears, type a reachable address in the **Email Address** field.
3. Click **Test** to send the message.

:::tip
Use an inbox you can open yourself (for example your own work address). That way you can confirm the message truly arrives, not just that the server reported success.
:::

## What to expect

- On success, the page shows **Success** and the test message arrives in the recipient's inbox.
- If delivery fails, the page shows **Failed to send** along with an error message. Review the details in [Email Sent Logs](/pbx/administrator-guide/email-sent-logs/) to troubleshoot.

:::note
**Success** means Cloud Voice handed the message off successfully. If the page reports success but nothing arrives, check the recipient's spam or junk folder, then compare the outcome against the entry in [Email Sent Logs](/pbx/administrator-guide/email-sent-logs/).
:::