SpamAssassin logo

SpamAssassin

Email Security

Open Source
Free Tier
Self-hosted
OpenMSP Score
61
44
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
21M
337Stars
88Forks
31KCommits
Apache License 2.0License
Jul 7, 2026Last commit
SpamAssassin is an open-source mail filter that uses a variety of techniques to identify and filter spam. It offers content filtering, Bayesian filtering, and DNS blocklists with extensive customization options and plugin support for mail servers.
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Key Features

Robust Scoring Framework

Uses hundreds of tests and scoring system to classify email, assigning points to various elements like sender address, subject line, and content to determine spam likelihood

Bayesian Filtering

Machine learning-based Bayesian spam filtering that learns from spam and ham (non-spam) emails to improve accuracy over time

Flexible Integration

Encapsulates logic in well-designed API that can be integrated with procmail, sendmail, Postfix, qmail, and many other email systems

DNS Blocklists

Integrates with DNS-based blocklists and collaborative filtering databases to identify known spam sources and patterns

Easy Configuration

Requires minimal configuration with customizable rules stored in plain text, making it easy to add new rules and modify existing ones

Rule-based spam detection

Extensive ruleset analyzing message headers, body, and metadata with scoring system for accurate spam identification.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Industry standard

De facto standard for open source spam filtering

Rule-based filtering

Comprehensive rule-based filtering system

Bayesian filtering

Effective Bayesian statistical filtering

Extensive plugins

Large ecosystem of plugins and rules

Open source

Free and open source with Apache Foundation backing

Cons

Resource intensive

Can be resource-heavy on high-volume servers

Maintenance required

Requires regular rule updates and maintenance

Limited GUI

No native graphical interface

Configuration complexity

Complex configuration for optimal performance

Requires Technical Expertise

Configuration and optimization require technical knowledge of email systems and spam filtering concepts

Feature Comparison

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Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

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Platform Information

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.
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.
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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

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