Chapter 1: Understanding the Shift

In May 2022, Google made a significant announcement regarding its less secure apps platform, which was set to be discontinued on May 30th. This change raises questions about how it affects users.

This article will delve into using Zoho as an alternative to Gmail or SMTP with Java technology. If you've relied on Google’s less secure apps to send emails from Java, JavaScript, PHP, or similar technologies, you’ve likely encountered this issue. You previously enabled the toggle for less secure apps to utilize free SMTP services effectively.

Google, as a tech leader, frequently updates its security policies every 6 to 12 months. Unfortunately, the discontinuation of access for less secure apps means that Google has permanently removed this option to enhance the security of user accounts. By ceasing support for third-party apps that utilize email and password authentication for SMTP services, Google aims to minimize vulnerabilities. You can learn more about these updated security standards on Google’s support documentation.

Is this a setback for users?

Absolutely not! It's time to adopt a positive outlook!

This shift offers developers a chance to broaden their horizons—exploring market trends, user preferences, and emerging technologies. So let’s embrace this change with optimism and move forward!

Problem Encountered: I had been using Google's SMTP services for four live applications, and everything was functioning smoothly until June 5, 2022. Despite continuing to use the services after May 30, I discovered on June 6 that I had stopped receiving emails for password resets, new user registrations, and other application notifications. Instead, I was met with a message indicating that access to these services was no longer available, and the toggle button was removed.

Having been aware of Google's reliable policy updates, I decided to seek alternative free SMTP services and kept a backup plan to transition to Zoho Mail.

Solution: Exploring Alternatives to Gmail SMTP

I researched various free, stable, and sustainable services from third-party providers, including:

• Zoho
• Proton Mail
• Microsoft Outlook
• Mail.com

While many options exist online, Zoho stands out as a preferred choice.

Zoho Mail: A Viable Alternative

As another major player in SMTP, ERP, and CRM solutions, Zoho offers a wide array of services for over 400 million customers, including both businesses and individuals. Known for its user-friendly interface, organized features, and prompt customer service, Zoho is committed to providing high-quality services.

Key advantages of using Zoho Mail include:

• End-to-end and S/MIME encryption
• 24/7 support via email, chat, and phone
• Mobile app for easy access
• Free access to additional Zoho products (e.g., Notebook, Zoho Docs, Work Drive)
• 99.9% uptime guarantee
• 5 GB of storage per user
• Automatic email forwarding
• Efficient filtering and management of emails

Moreover, utilizing Zoho for your website's email ensures that you avoid being flagged as a scam site, a common issue with free email services like Gmail.

Getting Started with Zoho Mail: A Step-by-Step Guide

To begin using Zoho Mail, you first need to create an account:

Step 1: Sign Up & Verify Your Email

Visit the Zoho signup page and complete the required fields. Check your email for a verification link, and click it to confirm your account. After registration, you will be directed to your Zoho dashboard.

Step 2: Provide Organization Information

While not mandatory, filling out your organization’s details can be beneficial for future growth. Follow the prompts to complete this section.

Step 3: Add Domain and Verify Ownership

Click to add your domain and follow the provided instructions to verify ownership. This typically involves updating TXT, MX, and DMARC records with your domain registrar. If you need assistance, feel free to reach out for help at an affordable rate.

Once these steps are complete, you can move on to integrating Zoho with your Java application.

Java Integration for Email Sending

Prerequisites: Ensure that you have imported the Javax.mail library into your configuration.

You can implement the email sending feature with Zoho quickly. Here’s a sample code snippet:

import java.util.Properties;

import javax.mail.*;

import javax.mail.internet.*;

public class ZohoMailTest {

public static void main(String[] args) {

Properties properties = new Properties();

properties.setProperty("mail.smtp.host", "smtp.zoho.in");

properties.setProperty("mail.smtp.port", "465");

properties.put("mail.smtp.auth", "true");

properties.put("mail.smtp.starttls.enable", "true");

Session session = Session.getDefaultInstance(properties, new javax.mail.Authenticator() {

@Override

protected PasswordAuthentication getPasswordAuthentication() {

// Update with your Zoho credentials

return new PasswordAuthentication("[email protected]", "your-password");

}

});

try {

MimeMessage message = new MimeMessage(session);

message.setFrom(new InternetAddress("[email protected]"));

message.setRecipients(MimeMessage.RecipientType.TO, InternetAddress.parse("[email protected]"));

message.setSubject("Testing Zoho Mail Integration!");

message.setText("Successfully sent email using Zoho with Java.");

Transport.send(message);

System.out.println("----------MAIL SENT-----------");

} catch (MessagingException e) {

e.printStackTrace();

}

}

}

Make sure to replace "[email protected]" and "your-password" with your actual Zoho email credentials.

Once compiled and executed, your email should be delivered without landing in the spam folder!

Congratulations on successfully making the switch! 👏👏👏

References:

1. Google Less Secure Apps Update
2. Maven Javax Mail Jar
3. Zoho Domain Verification Steps
4. Managing Users in Zoho

If you appreciate the value provided here, please consider supporting my work with a donation of any amount. Your support means more than you can imagine.

© Originally published on Medium by Rakshit Shah, BeingCoders Publication

Explore Gmail's discontinuation of less secure apps and learn about alternatives like Zoho Mail in this informative video.

This video covers how to enable alternatives to the 'Less Secure Apps' option in your Google account.