Setting up Python script for Gmail SMTP

Other Questions Gmail
1

Hey everyone,

I’ve been using Gmail’s web interface for a while, but now I want to send emails using a Python script. I’m having trouble figuring out the correct SMTP server settings.

Here’s what I’ve got so far:

import smtplib

email_server = smtplib.SMTP('unknown_server', unknown_port)
email_server.login('[email protected]', 'mypassword')

Can someone help me fill in the correct server and port for Gmail? Also, any tips on making this work would be great.

Thanks in advance for your help!

2

As someone who’s worked extensively with Python and email automation, I can confirm that Gmail’s SMTP setup can be tricky. While Finn_Mystery’s advice is solid, there’s another approach worth considering. If you’re using Python 3.6+, I’d recommend leveraging the ssl library for a more secure connection:

import smtplib, ssl

context = ssl.create_default_context()
with smtplib.SMTP_SSL('smtp.gmail.com', 465, context=context) as server:
    server.login('[email protected]', 'your_app_password')
    # Send your email here

This method uses port 465 for SSL, which is generally preferred over TLS for its enhanced security. It’s also worth noting that you should enable 2-Step Verification on your Google account before setting up an App Password. This adds an extra layer of security to your automation efforts.

3

I’ve gone through this process recently for a work project, so I can share some insights. For Gmail, you’ll want to use ‘smtp.gmail.com’ as the server and port 587 for TLS. However, there’s a catch - Google has tightened security, so you can’t just use your regular password anymore.

Instead, you’ll need to set up an ‘App Password’ in your Google Account settings. It’s a bit of a hassle, but it’s more secure. Once you’ve got that, your script should look something like this:

import smtplib

email_server = smtplib.SMTP('smtp.gmail.com', 587)
email_server.starttls()
email_server.login('[email protected]', 'your_app_password')

Don’t forget to add error handling and properly close the connection when you’re done. It took me a bit of trial and error, but once it’s set up, it works like a charm.

4

hey mike, dont forget to enable less secure app access in ur gmail settings. also, check out the ‘email’ library - it’s way easier than smtplib. just pip install it and ur good to go. saves a ton of headaches trust me