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The reliable way to forward addresses on your domain from a Linux VPS is to use Postfix virtual aliasing. Declare the domain in virtual_alias_domains, map each complete recipient address to a destination in virtual_alias_maps, rebuild the lookup database with postmap, check the configuration, and reload Postfix. Keep the domain out of mydestination and relay_domains; otherwise Postfix can reject mail with “relay access denied” or create a delivery loop.
What you are configuring
Postfix receives mail for your domain, looks up the envelope recipient in a virtual alias table, and hands the message to the destination you specify. For example, mail sent to joe@example.com can be redirected to joe@somewhere. Virtual aliasing changes the envelope recipient used for delivery; it does not rewrite the message headers.
This guide assumes Postfix is already installed on the VPS and that you can edit files under /etc/postfix with administrative privileges. The examples use example.com; replace it with your own domain and destinations.
Prerequisites before editing Postfix
- Inbound DNS: Your domain’s MX record must point to the VPS or to the inbound host that is intended to receive the mail.
- A stable public address: The VPS needs a stable public IP address so DNS and mail delivery remain consistent.
- Reverse DNS: Configure reverse DNS where your VPS provider requires it. It is especially relevant when the server sends mail directly to destination providers.
- Port 25 policy: Confirm your provider and firewall allow the SMTP traffic your design requires. Some networks restrict direct Internet delivery.
- A destination mailbox: Use a real external address for each forwarding rule and make sure that mailbox can receive mail.
- Administrative access: You need permission to edit Postfix configuration and rebuild its lookup database.
These network and DNS conditions are outside Postfix. If direct outbound SMTP is blocked or unsuitable, plan to use an authenticated or otherwise approved SMTP relay (smarthost) for outbound delivery.
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Check DNS from a network outside the VPS before testing. An MX record aimed at an old host, a provider’s default hostname, or an address that no longer exists can make a correct Postfix map appear broken. The MX target should resolve to the machine that actually accepts SMTP for the domain. Inbound routing and outbound delivery are separate: an MX record gets mail to your VPS, while the VPS still needs a permitted route to each forwarding destination.
Choose virtual aliases instead of local aliases
| Mechanism | Address scope | Typical destination | Domain handling |
|---|---|---|---|
/etc/aliases with alias_maps |
Local part looked up for local recipients | Local delivery and local aliases | Uses the server’s local-recipient configuration |
virtual_alias_maps |
Complete addresses such as joe@example.com |
Remote destinations such as joe@somewhere |
Requires the domain to be declared as a virtual alias domain |
If your goal is forwarding addresses that include your hosted domain, use a virtual map. Adding a name to /etc/aliases does not create a domain-wide forwarding rule. Local aliases are useful for local service accounts such as a system administrator, but they do not replace full-address mappings for a hosted domain.
Check which lookup database Postfix supports
The map type in virtual_alias_maps must be available in your installed Postfix build. Ask Postfix which types it supports:
postconf -mMany installations provide a hash: map. The official virtual-domain example also uses lmdb:. Choose one supported type and use that same type consistently in the configuration, the postmap command, and any query you run while testing. Do not assume a map type from another distribution will be present on your VPS; the output of postconf -m is the authoritative check for that installation.
Create the virtual alias map
1. Edit the source file
Create or edit /etc/postfix/virtual and add one mapping per line. The left side is the complete recipient address; the right side is the destination:
postmaster@example.com postmaster
joe@example.com joe@somewhere
jane@example.com jane@somewhere-elseThe first line sends mail to the domain’s postmaster address to the local postmaster recipient. The other lines forward to remote addresses. Keep the domain and address spelling exact; recipient lookups are performed against the address presented to Postfix.
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2. Declare the domain and map in main.cf
Add or adjust these settings in /etc/postfix/main.cf:
virtual_alias_domains = example.com
virtual_alias_maps = lmdb:/etc/postfix/virtualIf your system supports and you choose a hash map, use hash:/etc/postfix/virtual instead. The domain entry is required even when individual recipient mappings exist. Without it, Postfix does not classify the domain as a virtual alias domain.
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3. Keep the domain out of conflicting classes
Do not also put example.com in mydestination or relay_domains. A virtual alias domain must be classified as virtual; placing it in another recipient class can cause “relay access denied” or “mail loops back to myself.” Review the effective configuration rather than relying only on the text you remember editing.
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Compile the map and reload Postfix
The text file is the map source. Postfix reads the indexed database generated from that file, so edits do not take effect until you rebuild the database.
- Run
postmapagainst the exact source file and map type named invirtual_alias_maps. For the LMDB example:
sudo postmap /etc/postfix/virtualFor a hash configuration, the equivalent command is:
sudo postmap /etc/postfix/virtualThe command uses the map format determined by the installed Postfix tools and the configured source path; keep the path identical to the one in virtual_alias_maps. The resulting database is created beside the source file, such as /etc/postfix/virtual.db for a hash map or the corresponding LMDB files.
- Check the configuration:
sudo postfix check- Reload Postfix so the daemon reads the rebuilt map and current configuration:
sudo postfix reloadIf postfix check reports an error, fix it before testing delivery. A successful reload does not prove that DNS, outbound SMTP, or the destination provider will accept the forwarded message. Rebuilding the map and reloading are separate operations: a reload without a new database keeps old mappings, while a new database without a reload may not be read by already-running processes.
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Inspect effective settings
Use these commands to see the active, non-default configuration and to check syntax:
sudo postconf -n
sudo postfix checkConfirm that the expected domain appears in virtual_alias_domains and that virtual_alias_maps names the map type and file you actually rebuilt. Also inspect the effective values of mydestination, relay_domains, and mynetworks when troubleshooting classification or relay behavior. This catches settings inherited from package defaults or an earlier deployment.
Query one recipient
Query the indexed map directly. Substitute the configured map type:
postmap -q 'joe@example.com' hash:/etc/postfix/virtualWith an LMDB configuration, query the LMDB form instead:
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postmap -q 'joe@example.com' lmdb:/etc/postfix/virtualThe command should print the destination for that address. If it prints nothing, check the spelling, source file, map type, and whether you ran postmap after the last edit.
Send controlled test messages
- Send a message to a mapped address from an unrelated account, not from a trusted administrative network.
- Confirm that the destination mailbox receives it.
- Inspect the received headers. The envelope recipient may have changed while the original message headers remain intact.
- Review the sender’s mail log for queueing, connection, rejection, or delivery status.
- Send to an unmapped address and verify that Postfix rejects it rather than silently accepting it as a catch-all.
Testing an unmapped address is an important safety check: it reveals accidental catch-all behavior and configuration mistakes that a successful mapped-address test will not show. Repeat the test after changing domain classification, relay controls, or the map type.
Prevent loops and accidental catch-alls
Understand recursive aliases
Virtual aliases are recursive. If one mapping points to an address that maps back to the original address, Postfix can repeatedly expand the alias and create a delivery loop. The Postfix virtual(5) manual specifies that recursion for a particular address can be terminated by aliasing that address to itself. In normal forwarding setups, the safer remedy is to correct the mapping so the chain ends at the intended mailbox.
Check the entire chain, not just the first line. For example, forwarding joe@example.com to an intermediate address is safe only if that intermediate address ultimately resolves outside the chain or to a local delivery endpoint. A destination that is itself covered by another virtual rule can trigger additional expansion.
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Use catch-alls only deliberately
A catch-all entry has this form:
@example.com destination@example.netIt forwards every otherwise-unmatched recipient at the domain. That can attract spam, backscatter, and mail addressed to nonexistent users. If you use one, test it intentionally and monitor the resulting traffic; individual recipient entries are safer for most forwarding-only domains.
Do not confuse forwarding with header rewriting
Virtual aliasing changes the envelope recipient used for routing. It does not change the visible message headers, so the original To: or other recipient-related headers may still show the address that was first used.
Keep the VPS from becoming an open relay
A forwarding host exposed to the Internet must reject unauthorized attempts to use it for arbitrary outbound mail. Postfix defines mynetworks as the source networks whose clients are authorized, and relay_domains as destinations for which forwarding is permitted. The Basic Configuration guide notes that, by default, clients in authorized network blocks can be allowed to forward to any destination; an overly broad trusted network therefore creates serious risk.
- Keep
mynetworksnarrow: normally localhost and only explicitly authorized systems that genuinely submit mail. - Do not authorize an entire Internet-facing subnet merely because the VPS has an address in it.
- Review relay and recipient access-control settings after every configuration change.
- Retest an unmapped recipient and an unauthorized submission path, not just a valid forwarding address.
- Inspect logs for unexpected outbound volume or destinations.
Virtual aliasing alone does not make a server an open relay, but broad trust or permissive relay controls can. Keep the hosted domain in the virtual alias class and keep relay authorization separate from recipient forwarding rules. A successful test sent from localhost proves only that the configured path works; it does not prove that an Internet client is prevented from relaying.
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Direct delivery or an SMTP relay?
Postfix can deliver directly to destination MX hosts, but that design depends on conditions outside Postfix. Compare the two approaches before deciding:
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| Consideration | Direct delivery from the VPS | Authenticated or approved SMTP relay |
|---|---|---|
| Sending IP and reverse DNS | You control the VPS sending address and must maintain appropriate reverse DNS where required. | The relay supplies the sending infrastructure and its associated reputation controls. |
| Port 25 policy | Works only when the provider and network permit the required outbound SMTP traffic. | Useful when the VPS provider or network restricts direct port 25 delivery. |
| Authentication and encryption | Depends on the receiving server’s SMTP policy and your direct-delivery setup. | Typically uses the relay’s approved authentication and connection requirements. |
| Bounces and queues | Your Postfix queue and logs handle delivery attempts and deferrals. | Postfix still queues submissions, while the relay performs the next delivery stage. |
| Reputation management | You are responsible for the VPS IP’s reputation and recipient-provider feedback. | You depend on the relay’s reputation and policies. |
| Operational cost and dependence | Fewer third-party dependencies, but more responsibility for DNS, policy, and troubleshooting. | Less direct-delivery administration, with dependence on and possible charges from a third party. |
Neither design guarantees inbox placement. SPF, DKIM, DMARC, reverse DNS, IP reputation, and recipient-provider policy are separate concerns; adding a virtual alias does not configure or solve them. A relay can change the sending path, but it does not remove the need to publish correct domain policy or monitor delivery responses.
Troubleshoot the common failures
“Relay access denied” or “mail loops back to myself”
- Confirm the domain is listed in
virtual_alias_domains. - Remove that domain from
mydestinationandrelay_domains. - Verify the map contains the intended complete recipient address.
- Run
postmapagain against the configured source and map type. - Run
postfix checkand reload Postfix.
Edits have no effect
Postfix reads the indexed database, not just the text source. Run postmap against the exact file named in virtual_alias_maps, confirm the database files appear beside it, and reload the daemon. A map built for a different path or format will not update the active lookup.
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You may be testing /etc/aliases rather than a virtual map. Use full addresses such as joe@example.com on the left side of /etc/postfix/virtual, declare the domain as virtual, rebuild the map, and reload.
Outbound delivery is deferred or rejected
Inspect the mail log and check DNS, reverse DNS, provider port-25 policy, firewall rules, and the recipient’s SMTP response. Direct delivery may be unsuitable for the VPS environment; an authenticated or otherwise approved relay can be the appropriate alternative. Postfix cannot promise acceptance by every recipient provider.
Unexpected forwarding appears
Review mynetworks, relay_domains, recipient restrictions, and every entry in the virtual map. Look specifically for a catch-all line and for trusted networks broader than intended.
The map query works but mail still fails
A successful postmap -q proves only that Postfix can find a destination. Check the queue and log for the next stage: connection failures, DNS lookup errors, remote SMTP rejection, or a deferred delivery. Then compare the sender’s observed response with the destination provider’s policy. Mapping and transport are separate troubleshooting layers.
Safe change procedure for ongoing maintenance
- Back up the current
/etc/postfix/main.cfand/etc/postfix/virtualfiles using your normal system-administration process. - Edit only the required recipient mapping or domain setting.
- Run
postmapagainst the exact virtual-map source file. - Run
postfix checkand inspectpostconf -nfor unintended changes. - Use
postmap -qto verify each changed address. - Reload Postfix.
- Send a mapped-address test and an unmapped-address test, then inspect logs.
This sequence catches stale databases, syntax errors, domain misclassification, and accidental relay exposure before they become prolonged delivery problems. Keep a record of intentional catch-all entries and authorized networks so a later change does not silently broaden delivery.
Complete example
For a domain named example.com with two forwarding addresses, the relevant files look like this:
# /etc/postfix/main.cf
virtual_alias_domains = example.com
virtual_alias_maps = lmdb:/etc/postfix/virtual
# /etc/postfix/virtual
postmaster@example.com postmaster
joe@example.com joe@somewhere
jane@example.com jane@somewhere-elseApply and verify it with:
sudo postmap /etc/postfix/virtual
sudo postfix check
sudo postfix reload
postmap -q 'joe@example.com' lmdb:/etc/postfix/virtualThe lookup should return joe@somewhere. Then test real delivery from an unrelated account, confirm the destination mailbox receives the message, and verify that an unmapped address is rejected.
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For domain-to-mailbox forwarding on a Linux VPS, classify the domain as a Postfix virtual alias domain, map complete recipient addresses in /etc/postfix/virtual, rebuild the map, check, and reload. Most failures come from stale map databases, putting the domain in the wrong Postfix class, or allowing networks and relay rules to be broader than intended. DNS, reverse DNS, port-25 policy, and recipient-provider reputation still determine whether forwarded mail can leave the VPS and arrive successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I forward a domain address to Gmail with Postfix?
Declare the domain in virtual_alias_domains, add a full-address mapping such as you@example.com you@gmail.com to /etc/postfix/virtual, run postmap, check the configuration, reload Postfix, and test delivery. Gmail acceptance still depends on DNS, sending reputation, and provider policy.
Why does Postfix report “relay access denied”?
Check that the domain is in virtual_alias_domains and is not also listed in mydestination or relay_domains. Rebuild the virtual map, run postfix check, reload, and review effective settings with postconf -n.
Why do edits to /etc/postfix/virtual do nothing?
Postfix reads the indexed database, not only the text file. Run postmap on the exact source path and supported map type named in virtual_alias_maps, then reload Postfix.
What is the difference between /etc/aliases and virtual_alias_maps?
/etc/aliases handles local recipients by local part. virtual_alias_maps matches complete addresses such as joe@example.com and is designed for forwarding hosted-domain addresses to remote destinations.
How can I check whether my server is an open relay?
Keep mynetworks limited to localhost and explicitly authorized clients, review relay and recipient restrictions, and test an unmapped recipient and an unauthorized submission path. Also inspect logs for unexpected outbound destinations or volume.
Should I use a catch-all forwarding rule?
Only deliberately. @example.com destination@example.net catches every otherwise-unmatched address, which can attract spam and backscatter. Explicit recipient entries are safer for most domains.
Will virtual aliasing change the To header?
No. It changes the envelope recipient used for routing, while visible headers such as To: can continue to show the original address.
Do I need an SMTP relay instead of direct delivery?
Use direct delivery only when your provider permits outbound port 25 and you can maintain DNS, reverse DNS, queue handling, and reputation. An authenticated or approved relay is appropriate when direct delivery is blocked or unsuitable.
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Use Postfix virtual aliasing for domain forwarding: classify the domain correctly, map complete addresses, rebuild the lookup database, check and reload, then test both mapped and unmapped recipients. Keep relay trust narrow and treat DNS, port 25, reverse DNS, and recipient-provider policy as separate operational requirements.
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