IMAP and POP3 are the two ways your email program fetches incoming mail from the server. If you use your phone, computer and Webmail together, choose IMAP.
In short
- IMAP: Email stays on the server and looks the same on all your devices.
- POP3: Email is downloaded to one device and usually removed from the server.
- If unsure, use IMAP.
Comparison
| Feature | IMAP | POP3 |
|---|---|---|
| Where is email kept? | On the server | On your device |
| Several devices | All stay in sync (read, deleted, folders) | Each device separate; deleted on one, kept on another |
| With Webmail | Compatible | Downloaded email no longer shows in Webmail |
| Reading offline | Emails opened before | All downloaded emails |
| Server quota | Uses the quota, needs occasional clean-up | Space is freed as mail is downloaded |
| Encrypted port | 993 | 995 |
Which should I choose?
- Choose IMAP if
- you read email on your phone, computer and Webmail, or you don't want to lose email if a device breaks.
- Choose POP3 if
- you read email on one computer only, don't want it to take up server space, and back up that computer regularly.
Note: When switching from POP3 to IMAP, old emails remain only on your computer. Back up your Outlook data before switching.
For server and port details see Email Server and Port Settings.
Need help? Open a support ticket from your client area or call +90 216 348 35 03.
