Posteo — Privacy-Focused Email Service from Germany
General Information
Posteo is one of those providers that built its reputation not on features first, but on principles. Based in Germany, it runs on renewable energy, avoids advertising, and refuses to make money from user data. For many admins and users, that alone makes it stand out in a sea of “free but not really free” email services.
It’s especially popular with journalists, NGOs, and individuals who want a dependable mailbox without handing over personal information. Signing up doesn’t even require a name — and that unusual level of anonymity is part of why Posteo keeps coming up in privacy discussions.
How It Works
There’s nothing to install — Posteo is a hosted SaaS platform. Mail is delivered through the standard IMAP/SMTP stack, while calendars and contacts sync using CalDAV and CardDAV. Any normal mail client works: Thunderbird, Outlook, Apple Mail, or just the webmail interface.
Security is baked in. TLS is mandatory, optional PGP takes care of end-to-end encryption, and two-factor authentication is available for those who want extra safety. Payments can be made by bank transfer, PayPal, or even cash in an envelope, which underlines their focus on anonymity.
Functions
| Feature | In practice |
| Platforms | Hosted SaaS; IMAP/SMTP for mail, CalDAV/CardDAV for PIM |
| Privacy | No personal details required at signup, anonymous payment possible |
| Security | TLS enforced, PGP support, optional 2FA |
| Webmail | Simple, ad-free, supports filters and signatures |
| Groupware | Calendar and contacts via open standards |
| Integration | Compatible with all major mail and calendar clients |
| Sustainability | Runs entirely on renewable energy |
| Licensing | Proprietary SaaS, subscription-funded |
Installation Guide
Posteo is hosted, so setup is minimal:
1. Create an account at posteo.de.
2. If using a custom domain, configure DNS (MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC).
3. Add users or aliases via the admin panel.
4. Connect devices through IMAP/SMTP and CalDAV/CardDAV.
5. Enable PGP and two-factor authentication if required.
Migration from Gmail or Outlook is handled with standard IMAP import tools.
Everyday Use
– Activist groups often rely on Posteo when they want secure, no-tracking mail.
– Freelancers and consultants choose it as a clean, professional address that works on any client.
– Privacy-minded individuals switch to Posteo to get away from Google and Microsoft.
– Schools and associations sometimes provide Posteo accounts for staff, valuing the low cost and simplicity.
On a day-to-day basis, it’s just email — but without the advertising clutter or hidden profiling that comes with the big names.
Limitations
– No self-hosted option; Posteo is only available as a hosted service.
– Collaboration features are basic — no built-in docs or chat.
– Mailbox size is modest; extra storage costs more.
– Support is email-based and not as immediate as enterprise vendors.
Comparison
| Tool | Platforms | Strengths | Best Fit |
| Posteo | SaaS | Privacy-first, anonymous signup, eco-friendly | NGOs, individuals, small orgs |
| Fastmail | SaaS | Polished, very fast, supports JMAP | SMBs, professionals |
| ProtonMail | SaaS | Strong E2E encryption, Swiss hosting | Security-critical users |
| Gmail | SaaS | Deep integration, collaboration tools | Enterprises, SaaS-first teams |
| Microsoft 365 | SaaS / desktop | Office suite integration, enterprise features | Corporates in MS ecosystem |
Notes from the Field
IT admins often say Posteo is refreshingly simple: sign up, point DNS, and it works. The service isn’t trying to be an all-in-one office platform, and that’s fine — email, calendars, contacts, nothing more. One recurring tip: explain to teams upfront that Posteo is lean by design. No collaboration extras, no 50 GB inboxes. But for groups that value privacy and reliability above “bells and whistles,” it earns trust quickly.