ietf-smtp
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Re: DATA 554 responses - To Retry or Not.

2008-08-10 08:35:31

ned+ietf-smtp(_at_)mrochek(_dot_)com wrote:

> D, continue to try USER2, as that transaction was delayed.

That what our MTA does as well - DSN for USER1 and USER3, continue to retry
USER2.

But 2821 says SHOULD NOT retry for DATA 5yz. Why not just stop there and DSN all of them?

Nope, and several examples have already been given showing why it isn't
correct.

Which one? I believe I provided examples which shows this different interpretation is wrong.

It matches the specifications:

   [2821/2821bis - 4.2.5]

   When an SMTP server returns a permanent error status (5yz) code
   after the DATA command is completed with <CRLF>.<CRLF>, it MUST
   NOT make any subsequent attempt to deliver the message.

But this doesn't apply to USER2 or USER3 since neither were accepted as message recipients. It only applies to one recipient that was accepted:
> USER1, and AFAIK nobody has gone with A on your list.

It applies to all users in the sense of what it says here:

   As with temporary error status codes, the SMTP client retains
   responsibility for the message, but SHOULD not again attempt
   delivery to the same server without user review of the message
   and response and appropriate intervention.

which clearly says do not retry and that includes USER2.

Why isn't this followed?  It says SHOULD NOT retry.

I disagree that this is a change.

Sure it is.  It clearly says SHOULD NOT attempt to deliver.

--
Sincerely

Hector Santos, CTO
http://www.santronics.com
http://santronics.blogspot.com