====== IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) ======

**IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)** is the standard protocol used to **access and synchronize email** stored on a mail server.

Unlike POP3, IMAP is designed for users who access the same mailbox from multiple devices.

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===== How IMAP Works =====

With IMAP:

  * Emails remain on the mail server.
  * Your email client downloads only the information it needs.
  * Actions performed on one device are synchronized to all other devices.

Example:

<code>
Mail Server
      │
 ┌────┴────┐
 │         │
Laptop   Smartphone
 │         │
 └────┬────┘
      │
Synchronized Mailbox
</code>

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===== Common IMAP Ports =====

^ Port ^ Purpose ^
| 143 | IMAP with STARTTLS |
| 993 | IMAP over SSL/TLS (recommended) |

Today, port **993** is the most commonly used.

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===== Advantages of IMAP =====

  * Synchronizes multiple devices
  * Keeps messages on the server
  * Supports folders
  * Supports server-side search
  * Saves bandwidth by downloading messages only when needed

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===== Typical IMAP Operations =====

Using IMAP, an email client can:

  * Read email
  * Create folders
  * Move messages
  * Delete messages
  * Mark messages as read
  * Synchronize changes

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===== IMAP vs POP3 =====

^ IMAP ^ POP3 ^
| Mail stays on server | Mail is usually downloaded |
| Multiple devices | Best for one device |
| Synchronization | Limited synchronization |
| Server folders | Local folders |

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===== IMAP Security =====

Modern IMAP connections should always use TLS.

Most providers recommend:

<code>
Port 993
SSL/TLS Enabled
</code>

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===== IMAP and Telenegar =====

The **Telenegar Mail Check** service can verify:

  * IMAP connectivity
  * Open IMAP ports
  * TLS availability
  * Certificate validity

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===== Common Misconceptions =====

  * **IMAP downloads and removes email from the server.**
    * False. Messages normally remain on the server.

  * **IMAP is slower than POP3.**
    * Not necessarily. IMAP only downloads what is needed.

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===== Related Topics =====

  * [[email:pop3|POP3]]
  * [[email:smtp|SMTP]]
  * [[email:mx-records|MX Records]]
  * [[tools:mailcheck|Mail Check]]

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{{tag>email imap mail tls}}