The SMTP connection to server “smtp.cox.net” failed.

Could you provide the actual error message so we can better understand what is going on?  Usually there is an error code with an explation as to the possible cause.

I'm using the Apple Mail program.  This is the only message I get:

The SMTP connection to server “smtp.cox.net” failed.

Select a different outgoing mail server from the list below or click Try Later to leave the message in your Outbox until it can be sent.

Thanks!

Is this happening when using other computers networked in the home or is this an issue only on this one device?  Also it's common with Mac Mail when updating that settings get corrupted and need to be corrected.  I would also suggest removing and re-adding the SMTP server settings per step 8 this article to see if that resolves the issue:  http://ww2.cox.com/residential/support/internet/article.cox?articleId={4602dd20-ff0f-11e0-dee8-000000000000}

This is the only computer in the house that uses Cox email, and the problem is intermittent.  Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

I've already deleted and installed the account just in case corruption was the problem (which wouldn't explain an intermittent problem) however that did not fix the issue.

Is it possible that your smtp server does go up and down throughout the day?

The next time the connection to server "smtp.cox.net" fails, can you try loggin into our website at www.cox.net and send a test message from webmail? If you are able to send from webmail but not the email client, I suggest checking the firewall on the computer.

If you're not able to send from webmail, the site should tell you the possible reasons why.

Stephanie A

Cox Support Forums Moderator