EMailForwarding

Email forwarding is a mail routing feature that automatically forwards inbound messages from a source address to one or more destination addresses. It is commonly implemented at the mail server or domain level (server-side forwarding) or in an email client using rules (client-side forwarding). In server-side setups, the originating mail server handles delivery and then relays the message to the forward address. In client-side setups, the client downloads mail and re-sends or forwards it according to configured rules.

Forwarding can be one-to-one, where all messages to the source are sent to a single destination, or one-to-many, where copies are sent to multiple addresses. It is often used for transitions (changing domains, consolidating multiple inboxes), role accounts ([email protected] forwarded to individuals), or to maintain continuity after leaving a mailbox.

Differences between forwarding and aliases: An alias maps one address to another for delivery, while forwarding creates a separate path and can modify headers. Forwarding may preserve the original sender and subject, or reword with “Fwd:”. Some systems implement catch-all forwarding to route messages for all misaddressed mail to a single mailbox.

Technical considerations: Forwarding can affect email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) and may lead to delivery issues if the destination domain does not accept forwarded mail. Forward loops can occur if a forwarder sends mail back to the source. Privacy and security concerns arise when forwarding to external addresses.

Best practices: Use server-side forwarders where possible, keep lists limited to trusted destinations, enable authentication checks, monitor for loops, and periodically verify that forward paths still exist.