# Installing and configuring the Postie plugin

> Publish WordPress posts by email with the Postie plugin, including setting up the mailbox it checks and the posting options.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/installing-and-configuring-the-postie-plugin/

The **Postie plugin** allows you to publish WordPress posts by sending email messages. This is especially useful when posting from mobile devices or when you want to bypass the WordPress dashboard. On **ruachost.com**, you can install and configure Postie to streamline email‑to‑post publishing.

## Why Use Postie?

- Publish posts directly via email.
- Supports rich formatting, images, video, and audio attachments.
- Offers advanced filtering and user permissions.
- More secure and flexible than WordPress’s deprecated “Post via email” feature.

## Installing Postie

1. **Log in to WordPress** as the administrator.
2. In the left‑hand menu, click **Plugins → Add New**.
3. In the search box, type **Postie**.
4. Locate the plugin and click **Install Now**.
5. After installation, click **Activate Plugin**.

✅ Postie is now installed.

## ⚙️ Configuring Postie

1. **Access Settings.**

   - In the WordPress dashboard, go to **Settings → Postie**.
2. **Mailserver Tab.**

   - Select a secure protocol: **POP3‑SSL** or **IMAP‑SSL**.
   - Enter the correct port:

     - `993` for IMAP‑SSL
     - `995` for POP3‑SSL
   - Provide your mail server name, email address, and password.
   - Set how often Postie checks for new mail (e.g., twice per hour).
   - Define the maximum number of emails to process at once.
3. **User Tab.**

   - Ensure **Allow Anyone To Post Via Email** is set to **No**.
   - Add authorized email addresses that can send posts.
4. **Message, Image, Video/Audio, and Attachments Tabs.**

   - Fine‑tune how Postie handles formatting, media, and attachments.
   - Example: Configure whether images are embedded inline or stored in the Media Library.
5. **Save and Test.**

   - Click **Save Changes**.
   - Under **Postie Settings → Test Config**, confirm a successful connection.
   - Send a test email from an authorized address and click **Process Email**.
   - The email should appear as a new post on your WordPress site.

> **Note:**
- WordPress’s built‑in “Post via email” feature is deprecated and insecure. Postie is the recommended replacement.
- You must configure the WordPress cron routine so Postie can process emails automatically every 30 minutes.
- Always set a maximum email limit to prevent flooding your site with duplicate posts.