Editorial

What Happened to Email?

Published on:

June 28, 2014

In version 5.2.3 we made significant updates to the email client, addressing issues with Linux systems and multi-tenant environments. The email client initially used a single loop, which caused issues with stability and multi-tenant functionality - a problem with one email server affected all domains. The solution was to switch to a multi-threaded client, but this introduced its own challenges, especially with the STARTTLS command during the switch between unencrypted and encrypted traffic. After a second build to fix these issues, the email client is now more reliable, with fast, independent email delivery for each tenant. If you upgraded before June 28, we recommend reapplying the upgrade to ensure all the fixes are in place.

Those who watched release 5.2.3 closely might wonder what was going on with the email client. The first build had major problems with Linux operating systems. A second build was necessary to get it working again with popular email services.

Email has become an essential component in today's telephone systems. Many vendors use the term "unified communications" because of this. Honestly, we never understood what this term stands for, so we avoided the buzzword. Notwithstanding, the good old SMTP protocol delivers notifications and messages that are available on a telephone system, fast and reliably across a very large range of devices.

The old email client was using a single loop for all system messages. Every email reset the client, and he or she could start all over again. We had the email client run in its own thread, so things like timeouts and connects could be easily programmed.

There were problems with this approach, however. First of all, multithreaded tasks are always a source for trouble. If problems occur, they occur on a random basis; some of them occur only sometimes, and those are the hardest to fix. That wasn’t even the biggest problem, as we got the email client working pretty stable. A bigger problem was that in a multi-tenant environment, every domain might use its own email server. When that email server was down, all other domains were also affected. Email would still eventually go out, but it could take a long time before it happened. This was against the rule that every tenant should be working independently from anyone else.

When we changed the client to multi-tenant we of course tried to preserve the proven logic from the single loop client. Because most email servers support a dynamic switching from unencrypted to encrypted traffic using the STARTTLS command, however, our new client got into trouble when the second email was sent out right after the first. The TLS context was still the same, and what the PBX essentially did was a CONTINUETLS command. Unfortunately, no email server supports this, so we needed to come up with another build that also fixes that problem.

If you upgraded to 5.2.3 before June 28, we recommend you repeat the upgrade to make sure you got those last-minute email patches. Then you can enjoy fast and reliable email like never before.

Derniers articles

Voir tous

Vodia Announces Partnership with Comms Group Global

Vodia Networks has announced a strategic distribution partnership with Comms Group Global (ASX: CCG), aiming to expand the reach of its feature-rich cloud PBX solutions across APAC and EMEA. Through this collaboration, Comms Group Global will serve as an official reseller, providing businesses of all sizes with scalable, secure, and integrated telephony solutions. Customers will benefit from advanced call management features, Microsoft Teams integration, and robust security standards, while also gaining access to Comms Group’s SIP coverage in over 65 countries. The partnership enables a streamlined “one-touch” provisioning process, ensuring fast and seamless deployment for enterprises and SMEs seeking to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.

September 8, 2025

Why Fax Still Matters in 2025 and How Vodia Makes It Easy

Although many consider fax outdated, it continues to play a crucial role in sectors where compliance, confidentiality, and legal proof of delivery are non-negotiable. Healthcare providers rely on fax to meet HIPAA requirements, while industries such as finance, law, and real estate depend on it for contracts and documents that require signatures or legally verifiable transmission. Unlike email, fax offers confirmation reports that serve as proof of receipt, along with time-stamped records that hold up in legal proceedings. With Vodia’s PBX, digital fax becomes faster, easier, and more accessible than ever before, enabling users to drag and drop documents, monitor transmission progress, and receive immediate confirmations.

September 5, 2025

Building Intelligent Voice Response Systems with Vodia's JavaScript IVR

JavaScript IVR transforms the way businesses handle incoming calls by enabling fully customizable, intelligent phone menu systems. Unlike static IVR setups with limited, pre-defined options, JavaScript IVR allows you to create dynamic call flows that adapt in real time based on caller input, business data, or even external API integrations. This means you can route calls more efficiently, automate complex processes, and offer highly personalized experiences to your customers. Whether you want to check customer records before transferring a call, adjust menu options based on time of day, or integrate with CRM systems for instant data access, JavaScript IVR gives you the flexibility and control to make it happen - all while improving efficiency and enhancing caller satisfaction.

August 11, 2025