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POP3 stands for Post Office Protocol version 3. It is one of two main protocols your email client uses to retrieve email from the server. The other is IMAP. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right setup for how you use email.
POP3 downloads and removes, IMAP syncs and keeps
POP3 downloads messages to your device and (by default) deletes them from the server. Good if you only check email from one device and want to save server disk space.
IMAP keeps messages on the server and syncs them across all your devices. Good if you check email from your phone, laptop, and desktop. We recommend IMAP for most users.
01. POP3 Settings for Ultra Web Hosting
- Incoming server:
mail.yourdomain.com - Port: 995 (SSL/TLS) or 110 (STARTTLS or no encryption)
- Encryption: SSL/TLS recommended
- Username: Your full email address
- Password: Your email password (set in cPanel)
02. Which Should You Use?
For a detailed comparison with pros and cons, see POP3 vs IMAP - Choosing the Right Email Protocol.
For setup guides on specific email clients, see:
Need Help Setting Up Email?
Our support team can walk you through setting up POP3 or IMAP on any email client.
Open a Support TicketQuick Recap
- POP3 = Post Office Protocol version 3
- Downloads email to your device, optionally deletes from server
- Best for single-device use and saving server disk space
- IMAP is better for multi-device - keeps everything synced
- Use port 995 with SSL for secure POP3 connections
Understanding email protocols · Last updated March 2026 · Browse all Email articles
