Managing Vacation Messages in DirectAdmin
Summary
This guide explains how to create and manage vacation messages in DirectAdmin. Vacation messages automatically reply to incoming e‑mails when you are away, informing senders that you are unavailable until a specific date.
Overview
Vacation messages function like autoresponders but are designed specifically for temporary absences. They include start and end dates, so the automatic replies stop when you return.
Requirements
- DirectAdmin user-level access
- A domain with e‑mail enabled
- An existing e‑mail account to attach the vacation message to
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Access Vacation Messages
- Log in to DirectAdmin
- Go to E‑mail Manager → Vacation Messages
- Select the domain you want to manage
2. Create a New Vacation Message
- Click “Set Vacation Message”
- Choose the e‑mail account (example: support@yourdomain.com)
- Enter the subject line for the auto-reply
- Write the message body
- Set the start date and end date
- Click “Create”
3. Edit an Existing Vacation Message
- Go to Vacation Messages
- Find the message in the list
- Click “Modify”
- Update the dates, subject, or message
- Save changes
4. Disable or Delete a Vacation Message
- Go to Vacation Messages
- Locate the active vacation message
- Click “Delete”
- Confirm removal
This immediately stops all automatic replies.
Common Uses
Out-of-Office Notices
- “I am away until Monday and will respond when I return.”
Holiday Closures
- “Our office is closed for the holidays. We will reply after reopening.”
Temporary Unavailability
- “I am currently unavailable. Please contact our support team if urgent.”
Troubleshooting
Vacation Message Not Sending
- Ensure the start date is today or earlier
- Verify the e‑mail account exists and receives mail
- Check MX records for your domain
Vacation Message Still Sending After Return
- Delete the vacation message manually
- Ensure the end date is correct
Multiple Replies to the Same Sender
- Vacation messages send once per sender per day
- If more replies are sent, check for duplicate vacation entries
Conflicts with Autoresponders
- Avoid using both on the same e‑mail address
- Remove or disable one of them to prevent loops
Related Articles
- E‑mail Accounts
- Forwarders
- Autoresponders
- SpamAssassin Setup
- MX Records