Email Access Types: IMAP vs POP

When I offer email accounts to my clients, I always recommend IMAP over POP. The reason is simple: I want you to always be able to access every message.

The disadvantage, in my opinion, to POP email access is that once you download a message to read it, you can no longer download that same message to any other device. There are some exceptions to this, but, nonetheless, I personally see the POP method as a bad idea in an age where many people use multiple computer and mobile devices to access their files and messages.

If you have a special need to access your email via POP, I can make that available to you. However, please note that once you go POP, the messages you download are permanently downloaded and switching back to IMAP not only won't give you access to messages you've already downloaded, but you can cause further inconveniences like unnecessary message duplication.

To me, the decision is a questions of logistics and workflow. I'm happy to discuss your specific situation, offer advice, and ultimately provide you with what works best for you.

If you'd like to read another explanation of IMPA versus POP email, check out this article by the University of Minnesota's Office of Information Technology.