Finally had some time to write down the steps it takes to configure Postfix to use SSL for SMTP also known as TLS. I’ll tell you how to create a certificate instead of buying an expensive one and how to confingure it all on this page. This step isn’t required to get the Postfix mail server in working order but it will allow you to securely authenticate your users with a clear password.

When you use TLS or SSL for SMTP a mail client will first setup a encrypted communication channel before sending the users username and password in the clear. So no more snooping on the network to fish for password.