General IMAP/POP/SMTP Mail Settings Explained

When setting up email on any device or application, you'll need to choose between two protocols for receiving mail (IMAP or POP) and configure SMTP for sending. Here's what each does and how to find your settings in cPanel.

IMAP vs. POP: Which Should You Use?

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) keeps your mail synchronized across all devices. Emails stay on the server; you're viewing them from wherever you log in. Use IMAP if you check email from multiple devices (phone, tablet, desktop) and want your inbox to stay in sync everywhere.

POP3 (Post Office Protocol) downloads emails to your device and removes them from the server (by default). Once downloaded, the mail is yours locally. Use POP if you check email primarily from one device and want emails stored locally on that device.

Standard Port Numbers

Port numbers vary depending on whether you use an encrypted connection:

| Protocol | Port (Unencrypted) | Port (SSL/TLS) | Port (STARTTLS) |
|----------|-----|----------|----------|
| IMAP | 143 | 993 | 143 |
| POP3 | 110 | 995 | 110 |
| SMTP (Sending) | 25 | 465 | 587 |

For most users and devices, use SSL/TLS ports (993 for IMAP, 995 for POP, 465 or 587 for SMTP) for security.

Finding Your Mail Settings in cPanel

1. Log in to cPanel
2. Navigate to Email section
3. Click Email Accounts
4. Find your email address and click the account name
5. Look for Mail Server Settings or Connection Details — your provider will display your mail server hostname (typically mail.yourdomain.com or similar) and the recommended ports

Your mail settings typically include:
- Incoming Mail Server (IMAP): mail.yourdomain.com, port 993 (SSL/TLS)
- Incoming Mail Server (POP3): mail.yourdomain.com, port 995 (SSL/TLS)
- Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP): mail.yourdomain.com, port 587 (STARTTLS) or 465 (SSL/TLS)
- Username: Your full email address (name@yourdomain.com)
- Password: Your email account password

Tips

• Always use SSL/TLS encryption when available for security.
• If port 587 doesn't work for SMTP, try 465.
• If you're using STARTTLS, select that option in your email client rather than "SSL" or "TLS."
• Your hosting provider's support team can confirm the exact hostname if you're unsure.