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IMAP v3
IMAP version 3 (Internet Message Access Protocol) enables users to access and manage their email messages stored on a mail server in real time. It allows multi-device email synchronization, giving users flexibility to organize mail folders remotely and retrieve messages without downloading them permanently. This protocol version builds upon earlier iterations for improved client-server interaction, enhancing email management efficiency for both personal and organizational use..
IMAP version 3 (IMAP3) is an application layer protocol designed to enable online and offline email message management. Unlike its predecessor POP, IMAP3 maintains messages on a central server, allowing users to access their mail from multiple locations or devices without duplicating or losing information. With support for selective message downloading, server-side folder organization, and message flagging, IMAP enhances user flexibility and mailbox control.
Clients initiate a TCP or UDP connection to port 220 on the email server, where commands like FETCH, STORE, and SEARCH facilitate efficient email synchronization. IMAP3 extends some functionalities compared to IMAP2 by supporting improved command sets and enhanced status responses from the server. This two-way communication minimizes data transfers by only retrieving requested message components, optimizing bandwidth while ensuring timely mail access.
IMAP operates primarily over reliable TCP connections for data transfer integrity, but some implementations may support UDP for limited operations or notifications. In modern deployment, IMAP is typically secured with TLS encryption (using IMAPS on port 993), but IMAP3 on port 220 does not provide built-in encryption, which needs to be layered externally if security is a concern.