Basic Configuration
What skills do I need?
These are the skills and knowledge you'll need to configure FormMail manually and get your forms working with FormMail:
- A basic understanding of what HTMLOpens in a new window and PHPOpens in a new window are. You don't have to be an expert in these, but you need to know the difference between them.
- Editing a text file on your local computer. On Windows, use Notepad. On Mac, use SimpleText or TextEdit. Or, you can use any simple text editor you are comfortable with.
- Carefully following instructions and using examples precisely. You need to understand that a single character out-of-place can stop a computer from working.
- Uploading files to the "document root" or main folder on your website server. This is the same folder as your home pageOpens in a new window.
Is there a quicker way?
Yes! We've provided a low-cost Configuration Wizard that can set these basic configurations for you.
It will save you time and you can look at what it produces to help you understand more complex configurations.
You'll need to know how to download and open a ZIP file and then upload files to your server.
You can configure FormMail for basic operation even if you have little experience as a webmaster. You don't need to be a programmer or a web developer to get FormMail working for your website.
Basic Settings to Configure
To configure Tectite FormMail for basic operation, you only need to make two configuration settings:
When you've set DEF_ALERT, make sure you test that it works, using the "testalert" test.
Configuring Your HTML Form
To configure an HTML form to work with Tectite FormMail, read this guide.
Dealing with Email Problems
If you've done the basic setup and the email being sent by FormMail is not arriving in your Inbox, please read the guide to Solving Email Problems.
Always remember that the primary test is the "testalert" test, which is shown in the DEF_ALERT setting reference.
If you've got a technical interest and would like to know the logic used in FormMail for sending email, please read the document about From Address vs Sender. (Note: this is a very technical document.)
More Recommended Configuration Settings
Once you have the basics working, you can explore our recommended configuration settings.
Make sure you have your basic FormMail setup working first.
FormMail has a wealth of features, but we recommend you get acquainted with these recommended settings that provide more specific anti-spam features. You'll also learn how to switch off user-error alert emails you'll receive while testing your forms.
