What is the difference between IMAP and POP3?

Modified on Mon, Jan 30, 2023 at 8:56 PM

IMAP and POP3 are protocols used for retrieving email from a mail server.


POP3 (Post Office Protocol version 3):


- Downloads email messages to a single device and deletes messages from the server after retrieval.


- Does not synchronize email messages across multiple devices.


- Ideal for users who only need to access their email from one device.


IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol):


- Keeps email messages on the server and synchronizes them across multiple devices.


- Allows users to access and manage their email from multiple devices and locations.


- Ideal for users who need to access their email from multiple devices and want to keep their email messages organized on the server.

In summary, IMAP is better for keeping email organized and accessible from multiple devices, while POP3 is better for users who only need to access their email from one device.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article