Knowledge Base
How to Set Up a Catch-All Email Address
Receiving All Emails to Your Domain
A catch-all receives emails sent to any address at your domain, even if that address doesn't exist.
What is a Catch-All?
If someone emails typo@yourdomain.com (which doesn't exist), a catch-all ensures you still receive it.
Setting Up a Catch-All
- Log into DirectAdmin
- Click Email Forwarders
- Create a forwarder with
*as the source - Enter the destination email address
- Click Create
Pros of Catch-All
- Never miss email due to typos
- Can use unlimited "disposable" addresses
- Useful for testing and tracking
Cons of Catch-All
- Receives lots of spam
- Spammers often try random addresses
- Can fill up mailbox quickly
Alternative: Default Address
Some configurations allow setting a "default" action for unknown addresses:
- Bounce with error message
- Forward to specific address
- Discard silently
Recommendation
Instead of catch-all, create specific email addresses for different purposes. This reduces spam and helps organize your inbox.