MailScanner
Email Security
Open Source
Free Tier
Paid Plans
Self-hosted
OpenMSP Score
4321
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
102K201Stars
66Forks
636Commits
GNU General Public License v2.0License
Nov 6, 2024Last commit
Alternative Vendors
Commercial Alternatives
MailScanner is a highly respected open source email security system designed for Linux-based email gateways. First released in 2001, it is used at over 40,000 sites worldwide including government departments, corporations, and educational institutions. It scans email for viruses, spam, phishing, malware, and other security threats. The system integrates with popular tools like ClamAV for virus scanning and SpamAssassin for spam detection. While the core is free under GPL license, commercial front-ends and support options are available.
Key Features
Multi-Engine Virus Scanning
Supports over 25 different anti-virus engines including ClamAV for comprehensive malware detection
Advanced Spam Filtering
Integrates with SpamAssassin for sophisticated spam detection and filtering with customizable rules
Phishing Protection
Sophisticated phishing detection that identifies URL obfuscation attempts and warns users
Email Content Filtering
Comprehensive content filtering with filename detection, attachment scanning, and policy enforcement
Quarantine Management
Flexible quarantine system with email review, release, and automated cleanup capabilities
Pros and Cons
Pros
Mature and Battle-Tested
In production since 2001, processes over 80 billion emails per month worldwide
Open Source Foundation
Core engine is free and open source under GPL with community support
Comprehensive Email Security
Covers all major email threats: viruses, spam, phishing, malware, and content filtering
High Performance
Can process 2.2+ million messages per day on appropriate hardware
Cons
Complex Installation
Setup can be challenging and time-consuming, especially for new users
No Native Web Interface
Core system lacks GUI, requires third-party front-ends for web management
Linux Only
Designed specifically for Linux/Unix systems, no Windows support
Feature Comparison
Comments
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OpenMSP Score
4321
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
102K201Stars
66Forks
636Commits
GNU General Public License v2.0License
Nov 6, 2024Last commit
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What is OpenMSP?
OpenMSP is The MSP Knowledge Hub & Community Platform designed specifically for Managed Service Providers seeking to optimize their technology stack, reduce vendor costs, and discover open-source alternatives. We combine a comprehensive vendor directory, open-source solution catalog, and integrated community discussions to help MSPs make informed decisions.
Is OpenMSP really free?
Yes, completely free. Browse vendors and tools, read comparisons, and join community discussions - no cost, no registration required. OpenMSP is community-supported and focused on empowering MSPs to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency through open-source technology.
How does OpenMSP help MSPs reduce costs?
We help MSPs identify cost-effective alternatives to expensive commercial solutions, provide transparent vendor information, and connect you with proven open-source alternatives. Our platform enables MSPs to make informed decisions about their technology investments.
Do I need to create an account to use OpenMSP?
No account required for browsing vendors, reading comparisons, or accessing community content. Creating a free account with SSO (Microsoft, Google, or Slack) allows you to participate in discussions and save your favorite tools.
Platform Information
How does OpenMSP make money?
OpenMSP is currently community-supported. We focus on providing value to the MSP community first. Any future monetization will keep the core platform free for MSPs while maintaining our independence and commitment to unbiased information.
What makes OpenMSP different from other resources?
We focus exclusively on MSP needs with transparent vendor information and open-source alternatives. No vendor partnerships or sponsored listings - just honest, community-driven information to help MSPs make better technology decisions. Our biggest value is our community where MSPs help each other with questions, setup guidance, and sharing real-world experiences.
How is vendor and tool information verified?
Our community of MSP professionals helps verify and update information. We also maintain direct research on tools and vendors to ensure accuracy. Community members can report outdated information, and we work to keep everything current.
Who is behind OpenMSP?
OpenMSP was founded by Michael Assraf, who has extensive experience in the MSP industry and product leadership. As the former CEO & Founder of Vicarius, Michael grew a startup from $0 to $9M ARR with 500+ customers and deep experience working with MSPs, partners, and fundraising. OpenMSP represents his commitment to empowering the MSP community through better technology decisions and cost optimization.
Open-Source Tools & Alternatives
How do you evaluate open-source tool quality?
We assess tools based on active development, community size, documentation quality, production deployments by MSPs, and available support options. Tools must meet strict criteria for reliability and enterprise readiness.
Can I get support for open-source tools?
Many open-source projects offer multiple support options including community forums, commercial support from vendors, professional services, and our community discussions where experienced MSPs share implementation guidance.