What is an email protocol?
A protocol is a set of rules two computers follow. Email programs such as Outlook or Thunderbird use a protocol to collect your mail from the server. The server is the computer that stores your mail.
What is POP3?
POP3 stands for Post Office Protocol, version 3. It downloads your mail to one device. After that, the server often deletes its copy. It is like taking letters out of a post office box and carrying them home. The box is now empty.
What is IMAP?
IMAP stands for Internet Message Access Protocol. It shows the mail that stays on the server. Your devices only look at it. Read a message on your phone, and it shows as read on your laptop too. It is like reading letters at the post office while they stay in the box.
Main differences
| Point | POP3 | IMAP |
|---|---|---|
| Where mail lives | Mostly on your device | On the server |
| Many devices | Poor, mail ends up on one | Great, all devices match |
| Folders and read marks | Not shared | Shared |
| Offline reading | Easy, all mail is saved | Works for messages already loaded |
| Server space | Frees space on the server | Uses server space |
| Usual ports | 110 (995 secure) | 143 (993 secure) |
Which should you choose?
- Choose IMAP if you read mail on a phone, laptop or webmail.
- Choose POP3 if you use a single computer and want to keep mail only there.
For most people today, IMAP is the better choice.
How to set it up
- Open your email program and add a new account.
- Type your full email address and password.
- Pick IMAP or POP3.
- Enter the incoming mail server name from your welcome email.
- Choose the secure port, with SSL/TLS turned on.
- Enter the outgoing (SMTP) server name and its port.
- Save and send a test email.
If you cannot find these settings, ask Hostvento support. You can open a support ticket.
Warning: If you use POP3, back up your mail folder. Mail removed from the server may be lost if your device breaks.
Quick recap
- POP3 downloads mail to one device.
- IMAP keeps mail on the server and syncs all devices.
- IMAP is best for most users.
- Use secure ports and back up if you choose POP3.