What IMAP does
IMAP keeps your mail on the server and syncs it to every device. Read a message on your phone and it shows as read on your laptop; folders and flags stay consistent everywhere. It is built for multi-device use.
What POP3 does
POP3 downloads messages to one device and (by default) removes them from the server. It suits a single-device setup or low-storage scenarios, but it does not sync across devices well.
Side-by-side
- Multiple devices: IMAP syncs everywhere; POP3 does not.
- Storage: IMAP uses server storage; POP3 uses local storage.
- Backup: IMAP keeps mail on the server; POP3 risks loss if the device fails.
- Best for: IMAP for teams and modern use; POP3 for single-device/offline-only cases.
Recommended settings
For business email, use IMAP on port 993 (SSL) for incoming and SMTP on port 465 (SSL) for outgoing. With HavitoMail these are the default settings, so your mail stays in sync across your laptop, phone, and webmail.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use IMAP or POP3?
Use IMAP for business email. It keeps mail on the server and syncs across all your devices, which is what you want for modern, multi-device work. POP3 only makes sense for single-device or offline-only use.
Does IMAP use more storage?
IMAP uses server-side storage since mail stays on the server. That is a benefit — your mail is backed up and available everywhere — and business plans include ample storage.
What ports do IMAP and SMTP use?
IMAP typically uses port 993 with SSL for incoming mail, and SMTP uses port 465 with SSL for outgoing mail.
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