Email Protocols

Question 1

IMAP

Answer 1

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)
Ports:

143 - unencrypted
993 - encrypted

IMAP allows users to access and manage their emails directly on the mail server, keeping messages synchronized across multiple devices. Emails remain on the server unless explicitly deleted.

Question 2

SMTP

Answer 2

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)

25 - unencrypted
587 - encrypted

SMTP is used for sending emails. It handles the process of sending outgoing messages from an email client to the server and eventually to the recipient’s mail server.

Question 3

POP

Answer 3

POP (Post Office Protocol)

110 - unencrypted
995 - encrypted

POP downloads emails from the server to a local device, often removing them from the server afterward. This protocol is best for offline email management and single-device access.