What are POP3 and IMAP?

POP3 and IMAP are protocols for retrieving emails. POP3 downloads emails to a local device, while IMAP syncs emails across multiple devices by storing them on the server.

When is it used?

POP3 and IMAP are two email protocols. POP3 is for users who want to store emails on their devices and is best for offline access and ample storage space.

IMAP is best for accessing emails on multiple devices. Emails are stored on the server, providing real-time synchronization. It is ideal for those who are often on the move or need to collaborate using shared email folders.

In summary, POP3 is best for individuals who prefer downloading and storing their emails on their devices. At the same time, IMAP is perfect for those who want to access and manage their emails from multiple devices and locations.

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How does it work?

POP3

1. When you open your email client, it connects to the email server using POP3.
2. You must provide your username and password, which the email client uses to log in to the server.
3. Once logged in, the email client requests the emails from the server. POP3 then downloads all new emails to your local device. This process can include downloading the entire email content, including attachments.
4. The emails are stored locally on your device, such as your computer or phone. This means you can access and read these emails even when you're not connected to the internet.
5. By default, POP3 typically deletes the emails from the server once they are downloaded. However, most email clients offer an option to leave a copy of the emails on the server. This is useful if you plan to access your email from a different device. Still, it doesn't synchronize the read/unread status or any other changes.
6. The email client disconnects after the emails are downloaded (and possibly deleted from the server).

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IMAP

1. When you open your email client, it connects to the email server using IMAP.
2. You need to provide your username and password, which the email client uses to log in to the server.
3. Unlike POP3, IMAP synchronizes the email messages between the client and the server. This means that when you read, delete, move, or mark an email in your email client, the action is reflected on the server and any other device connected to your email account via IMAP.
4. IMAP downloads the headers of the emails first, which are the subject lines and sender information. The rest of the email content, including attachments, is downloaded only when you click on the email. This approach makes checking emails quicker, especially with a slower internet connection.
5. The IMAP protocol maintains a continuous connection with the server, periodically checking for new mail and updating the status of emails (like new, read, deleted, etc.).
6. Emails are stored on the server, not on your local device. This means you can access your full email account from any device connected to the internet, making IMAP ideal for users who check their email from multiple devices, like a smartphone, laptop, and tablet.
7. With IMAP, you can create folders in your email client to organize emails. These folders are also synchronized with the server, so any organizational structure you create is reflected across all your devices.

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