What is IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)?
Turkish: IMAP
IMAP keeps email on the server and synchronizes folders, read state, flags, and mailbox changes across multiple devices.
What Is IMAP?
IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is an email protocol that keeps the mailbox on the server so multiple devices can see the same mail state. When a message is read on a phone and also appears read on a laptop, or when moving a message to a folder is synchronized, IMAP is involved.
IMAP differs from the older POP3 approach, which focused on downloading mail to one device and often removing it from the server. Messages, folders, flags, and read state remain on the server; clients display that state and write changes back. Secure IMAP commonly uses TLS on port 993.
Difference from SMTP
IMAP is for receiving email and managing the mailbox. Sending email is handled by SMTP. A business mail client can synchronize the inbox through IMAP while delivering outgoing messages through SMTP.
Business Use
IMAP matters for shared support inboxes, assistant access, multi-device work, and teams that need searchable mail archives. Quotas, backups, two-factor authentication, app passwords, and the ability to revoke access from lost devices should be planned alongside email security.