Mailbox, alias or forwarding address: which do you need?

An address is not necessarily a separate mailbox. Aliases and forwarding differ in storage, access and how replies are sent.

A mailbox stores messages

A mailbox stores messages at the mail service. Confirm the number of actual mailboxes included; a domain plan does not automatically create an inbox for every address.

An alias is another address name

An alias can deliver another address into an existing mailbox without separate storage or login. Sending from it depends on provider settings, so confirm both receipt and sending.

Forwarding needs a reply plan

Forwarding sends messages elsewhere, but replies may expose the destination address unless sending is configured. Authentication can also be affected. Do not assume unlimited aliases or forwarding are included in the announced mailbox.

Your practical checklist

• Decide whether storage is needed.
• Confirm mailbox count.
• Check alias sending.
• Test replies through forwarding.

Sources and further reading

• Google: email sender guidelines

Registration rules and provider functions can change. Check the current requirements for your domain before ordering or changing services.