How to Configure Email Routing in cPanel

Introduction

Email Routing in cPanel determines how your domain handles incoming emails — whether they should be delivered locally (on the same server), sent to a remote mail server (like Google Workspace or Zoho), or used as a backup option. Correct email routing ensures proper mail delivery and avoids errors like undelivered messages or loops.

This article explains what each email routing option means and how to configure it correctly in cPanel.

What is Email Routing?

Email routing tells cPanel where to direct incoming email messages for your domain. This setting is especially important if:

• You're using external email services (e.g., Google Workspace, Zoho)

• You're moving email from one server to another

• You want to use your cPanel server as a backup mail exchanger

Email Routing Options in cPanel

1. Local Mail Exchanger

   • Emails are delivered to your current cPanel server

   • Use this if your email is hosted on the same server as your website

2. Remote Mail Exchanger

   • Emails are sent to another mail server specified by your domain’s MX records

   • Use this if you’re using third-party email hosting (e.g., Gmail, Zoho)

3. Backup Mail Exchanger

   • cPanel acts as a backup email server

   • Email is delivered here only if the remote server is unreachable

How to Change Email Routing in cPanel

1. Log in to your cPanel account

2. Scroll to the Email section

3. Click on Email Routing

4. Choose the domain from the dropdown (if you have more than one)

5. Select the appropriate option:

   • Local Mail Exchanger

   • Remote Mail Exchanger

   • Backup Mail Exchanger

6. Click Change

Note: Make sure your MX records match your chosen routing. Mismatched settings can cause email failures.

When to Use Each Option

Important Notes

• Changing the routing doesn't modify your MX records — they must be updated separately via DNS or the Zone Editor.

• If you're unsure which setting to use, check your current MX records using cPanel or external tools like MXToolbox.

Conclusion

Email routing is a key setting in cPanel that ensures your emails are sent to the right server. Whether you use cPanel’s mail services or a third-party provider, setting the correct routing option keeps your communication flowing without interruption.