We can provide 2 different types of mailbox – POP3 and IMAP. Both are very different, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Please consider the comparisons below carefully before choosing which mailbox is best for you.
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POP3 email account |
IMAP email account |
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Email is downloaded onto a local computer and is only available from that computer |
Email is stored on the server, so can be accessed from any computer/device |
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Requires very little storage space on the server, as all mail is downloaded when user is logged in |
Can take up a lot of space on the server if large attachments are often received
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No folders are synced with the server |
Can create multiple folders which will sync with server, allowing for better organisation of email |
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Can access all messages offline once they have been downloaded |
Work offline may be available depending on the email program |
If you want to access your emails from more than one device (ie. Computer, phone, laptop, tablet, etc.), IMAP is the right mail account for you. This will give you better organisation, with all folders synced to the server and the ability to view new messages at a glance when connected to the internet.
If you only use the one device (ie. Home or work computer) then a POP3 account may be more useful for you. This allows all mail to be downloaded directly to your computer at login, ensuring that you take up a small amount of space on the server have all of your email stored locally.
