After configuring Tableau Server on a Windows system, you notice that the server cannot connect to an external SMTP server for email notifications. What should be the first troubleshooting step?
A. Installing a new email client on the Tableau Server machine
B. Verifying the SMTP server details and network connectivity in the Tableau Server configuration
C. Increasing the server's RAM to improve its ability to handle external communications
D. Changing the email format settings in Tableau Server
B. Verifying the SMTP server details and network connectivity in the Tableau Server configuration
Explanation:
Why B is Correct?
SMTP connection failures are most commonly caused by:
Incorrect server details (e.g., wrong hostname, port, or authentication credentials).
Network issues (e.g., firewall blocking port 25/587, DNS resolution failures).
Tableau’s Email Configuration Guide lists this as the first troubleshooting step.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect?
A.Installing an email client: Tableau Server communicates directly with SMTP servers—no local client is needed.
C.Increasing RAM: Unrelated to SMTP connectivity issues.
D.Changing email format: Affects message content, not delivery failures.
Reference:
Tableau’s SMTP Troubleshooting Guide.
Final Note:
Start with B—90% of SMTP issues stem from misconfiguration or network blocks. If unresolved, check firewall rules or SMTP server logs.