Inbound email comparison

Backup MX vs mail redirection

Both protect inbound email, but they solve different problems: Backup MX covers outages, while mail redirection works around blocked inbound port 25.

Backup MX

Best when your normal mail server sometimes goes offline.

  • Acts as a secondary MX.
  • Queues mail during outages.
  • Retries delivery when the primary returns.

Mail redirection

Best when your ISP blocks inbound SMTP port 25 but you still want to self-host.

  • Acts as the primary MX.
  • Receives on port 25 for you.
  • Forwards to your server on an alternate port.

Quick comparison

NeedBackup MXMail redirection
Server outage protectionYesSome spooling support
Inbound port 25 blockedNoYes
Primary MX roleNoYes
Best fitContinuity during downtimeSelf-hosting through blocked networks

How to choose

If mail normally reaches your server and you mainly fear outages, choose Backup MX. If outside servers cannot reach your server on port 25 at all, choose mail redirection.

Need the right inbound protection?

DNSExit covers both continuity during outages and blocked-port self-hosting scenarios.

Explore Backup MX Explore Mail Redirection
Explore by goal

Keep moving with the guide that matches the problem.

Keep remote access working Start with Dynamic DNS when your public IP changes. Fix email delivery Separate outbound sending issues from inbound mail problems. Automate DNS and SSL Use API-driven DNS updates and validation workflows. Compare service options Choose the right email setup before you commit.
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