Setting Up Your eDirectory Site (Version 13.5+) : A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Congratulations on your recent eDirectory purchase! Feeling overwhelmed about where to begin with the initial setup? Unsure of the correct order for configuring your new platform? Don't worry! This article provides a clear and sequential roadmap, guiding you through every essential step required for the basic setup of your eDirectory site (version 13.5 and above). It's crucial to follow the configuration order outlined here, as each step lays the foundation for the seamless functionality of the subsequent ones.

1. Setting Your Domain:

Ensuring your eDirectory site operates under your desired domain name is the first critical step. To initiate this process smoothly, please send an email to our support team at [email address removed], clearly stating your site's intended domain. Our team will then take the necessary steps to facilitate the domain change. For a detailed explanation of the domain change process, please refer to our comprehensive article: Domain Change: How can I proceed to change my domain?

Note: Feeling lost? Want a step by step guide through video? Make sure to check out our Domain Change video tutorial from our Getting Started Video series: Getting Started #7 - Domain Change

2. Configuring Email Sending:

Establishing a reliable mail server for automated email communication is paramount for your eDirectory site's functionality. As a valued eDirectory client, you are entitled to utilize our hosted mail server. If you wish to take advantage of this service, simply email [email address removed] to inform us that you'd like hosted emails. We will then create the mail server for you and provide you with the necessary credentials. Alternatively, you have the option to configure email sending using a third-party mail server of your choice. Once your mail server is set up, follow the specific instructions provided in one of the articles below, based on your mail server provider:

Note: If you intend to use a third-party mail server not listed above, please contact your mail server provider and request the following essential information:

  • Outgoing Server (SMTP Server)
  • SMTP Port Number
  • Required SSL/TLS settings

Once you have gathered this information, navigate to Settings → Email sending configuration in your eDirectory Site Manager:

  • Server: Enter the Outgoing Server address provided by your mail server and select the appropriate type of authentication (if required).
  • Port: Enter the SMTP Port Number provided and select the necessary SSL/TLS settings.
  • Email Address: Type a valid email address associated with your configured mail server.
  • Username: In most cases, this will be the same email address you entered in the previous field.
  • Password: Enter the password for the email address you provided.
  • Click on "Save changes" to apply your email sending configuration.

After successfully configuring email sending, we strongly recommend setting up the Administrator E-mail. Click on the "Administrator E-mail" tab located above the email sending configuration form. Enter your preferred email address in the designated field and check the box to ensure you receive important site notifications on this account.

Note: Feeling lost? Want a step by step guide through video? Make sure to check out our Email Settings video tutorial from our Getting Started Video series: Getting Started #9 - Email Settings

3. Integrating with Google Services:

Essential integrations with various Google services are crucial for the optimal performance and functionality of your eDirectory site. Please follow the detailed instructions provided in the articles below to configure each Google integration:

Note: Feeling lost? Want a step by step guide through video? Make sure to check out our Google Integrations setting up video tutorial from our Getting Started Video series: Getting Started #8 - Google Integrations

4. Setting Up Payment Integration:

To enable your site to receive payments for advertising and subscriptions, you must configure a payment platform. Choose from the following available and widely used platforms:

Refer to the individual configuration articles linked above for detailed, step-by-step instructions on integrating your chosen payment platform.

5. Configuring Locations:

Accurate location data is fundamental for building a functional directory, allowing clients to specify and search within relevant countries, states, and cities. Please follow these articles to configure your site's location settings effectively:

Note: Feeling lost? Want a step by step guide through video? Make sure to check out our Location Settings video tutorial from our Getting Started Video series: Getting Started #4 - Location Settings

Conclusion

By meticulously following these configuration steps in the exact order presented, you will lay a solid foundation for a successful eDirectory site launch (version 13.5 and above). Should you encounter any questions or require further assistance at any stage of the setup process, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated support team at support@edirectory.com. We are here to ensure your smooth and successful platform deployment.

Happy configuring your new eDirectory site!

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