Question:

I am encountering a challenge with email notifications from my APC UPS setup. The UPS is connected to my PC via an RJ45 to USB cable, and I utilize the PowerChute Serial Shutdown software to receive email alerts about any UPS issues. The email function is configured with smtp.google.com as the mail server (TLS 587), and under normal conditions, it operates correctly. However, my PC’s connection through a VPN, which lacks Split Tunneling support, seems to interfere with the email delivery, resulting in no emails being received.

My suspicion is that Gmail might be blocking the emails due to the VPN’s IP address. I have attached an error message from the PowerChute logs for reference. Given these circumstances, is there a method to successfully receive the UPS notifications via email? For example, could there be a way to configure exceptions for the software to send emails outside the VPN, considering the impracticality of rerouting due to the smtp server’s frequently changing IP?

I appreciate your guidance on this matter. Thank you.”

Answer:

In the realm of uninterrupted power supply (UPS) management, ensuring the receipt of critical email notifications is paramount. Users of APC UPS systems, like yourself, often rely on PowerChute Serial Shutdown software to stay informed about their UPS’s status through email alerts. These alerts are particularly crucial during power issues, as they allow for timely intervention and management.

You’ve described a scenario where your APC UPS is connected to your PC via an RJ45 to USB cable, and you’ve configured smtp.google.com with TLS on port 587 for email notifications. While this setup functions flawlessly under standard conditions, the introduction of a VPN connection without Split Tunneling capabilities has led to a disruption in email delivery.

The Suspected Culprit:

Your suspicion that Gmail may be blocking emails due to the VPN’s IP address is a plausible explanation. VPNs can sometimes trigger security protocols on email servers, leading to blocked or failed email transmissions.

Potential Solutions:

To circumvent this issue, there are a few strategies you could consider:

1.

VPN Configuration:

• If possible, switch to a VPN provider that offers Split Tunneling. This feature allows you to route only necessary traffic through the VPN, while direct internet access is used for specific applications like email.
• Alternatively, you could configure the VPN client’s settings to exclude smtp.google.com from the VPN tunnel, effectively allowing direct communication with Gmail’s servers.

2.

Email Relay:

• Set up an internal email relay that can communicate with the VPN and the external email server. This relay would act as an intermediary, receiving emails from PowerChute and forwarding them to your Gmail account.

3.

Alternative Notification Methods:

• Consider using alternative methods for UPS alerts, such as SMS notifications or a dedicated monitoring system that isn’t affected by the VPN.

4.

Static IP Address:

• If the VPN’s dynamic IP is causing issues, obtaining a static IP from your VPN provider might prevent Gmail from flagging the emails as suspicious.

5.

Whitelisting:

• Contact Gmail support to see if the VPN’s IP address can be whitelisted, ensuring that emails sent from PowerChute are not blocked.

6.

Software Exceptions:

• Some VPNs allow for creating exceptions for certain applications. Check if your VPN client has this feature and add PowerChute to the exceptions list.

Conclusion:

The disruption of email notifications from your APC UPS due to a VPN connection is a complex issue, but not insurmountable. By exploring the solutions above, you can find a workaround that ensures the continuity of UPS alerts and maintains the integrity of your power management system. Remember to test each solution thoroughly to determine which one best suits your specific setup and needs.

Disclaimer:

The effectiveness of these solutions can vary based on individual network configurations and the specific VPN and email services used. It’s recommended to consult with IT professionals if you’re unsure about implementing these changes.