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
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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.