How to request or enable SMTP access on a DigitalOcean Ubuntu droplet for transactional emails

Hello Guys,

I am running an Ubuntu-based droplet on DigitalOcean and have deployed a web application called Pinggo on it.

My application requires outbound email functionality for transactional purposes only, such as:

• User email verification

• Password reset emails

• Account/profile-related notifications

These emails are strictly triggered by user actions. The application does not send marketing, bulk, or unsolicited emails.

Currently, outbound SMTP ports appear to be restricted on my droplet, and I would like guidance on the correct process to enable SMTP access (for example, ports 587 or 465), or best practices recommended by DigitalOcean for handling transactional emails.

Details:

• OS: Ubuntu (latest LTS)

• Hosting: DigitalOcean Droplet

• Email usage: Transactional only (verification, password reset, etc.)

• Compliance: Will fully comply with DigitalOcean’s Acceptable Use Policy and anti-spam requirements

I would appreciate advice on:

1. Whether SMTP access can be enabled directly on the droplet

2. If a support request is required, what details DigitalOcean typically expects

3. Any recommended alternatives (such as relay services) that align with DigitalOcean policies

Thank you in advance for your help.