Email filters automatically sort or handle incoming messages based on rules you set, such as moving newsletters to a folder or deleting obvious spam. Setting up filters keeps your inbox tidy without manual effort. This guide explains how in DirectAdmin.
What filters can do #
- Move messages from a sender or subject into a specific folder.
- Delete or block unwanted mail automatically.
- Flag or forward certain messages.
Creating a filter #
- Log in to DirectAdmin.
- Go to E-mail Manager > E-mail Filters (account-level) or set filters within Roundcube webmail for a single mailbox.
- Create a new filter and choose the condition, such as “from contains” or “subject contains”.
- Choose the action, such as move to folder, delete, or block.
- Save.
Account filters vs. webmail filters #
DirectAdmin filters apply at the domain or account level, affecting mail before it reaches a client. Roundcube webmail also has its own filters for an individual mailbox. Use account-level filters for broad rules and webmail filters for personal sorting.
Useful filter ideas #
- Send newsletters to a “Reading” folder.
- Route messages for a project into their own folder.
- Block a persistent spam sender.
Troubleshooting #
- Filter not working: check the condition matches exactly and the order of rules.
- Wanted mail deleted: loosen the condition or remove the rule.
Need help? #
If a filter is not behaving as expected, our support team can help over live chat.
