Better understand POP and IMAP messaging protocols

What’s the difference between POP and IMAP?

To view your emails from messaging software, you have the option to use two different protocols depending on your needs. Learn the difference between POP and IMAP.

POP (Post Office Protocol)

POP allows you to retrieve emails from a remote server.
The emails you retrieve are deleted from the server and uploaded to your computer. Some email software allows you to keep a copy of your emails on the server.
With POP, you can view the emails you have downloaded without an Internet connection, but only on the device where they were downloaded.

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)

IMAP, unlike POP, does not just pick up emails. IMAP also synchronizes messages as emails remain on the server.
IMAP allows you to access your email from any device (e.g., multiple computers, tablets, smartphones).
Your messages are kept on the server for 365 days. Consider saving important emails to another location to keep them longer.

POP/IMAP storage limits

The storage limits are different depending on the POP and IMAP messaging protocols. Find out which protocol works for you.

POP

In the case of POP, emails are downloaded to your computer.
The amount of disk space available on your computer determines the storage capacity of your emails.

IMAP

In the case of IMAP, the storage space is defined by the server. From time to time, you will need to sort and delete messages that are no longer useful to you.
You are entitled to 2 GB for Videotron’s main inbox. Secondary inboxes have a capacity of 2 GB each.

We recommend the IMAP protocol, which is better suited for multiple consultations. It allows you to view and synchronize your emails across multiple devices. If IMAP configuration is not possible, we suggest upgrading the messaging software to a newer version. Access more information on how to configure your Videotron email address.

Server address information

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) are protocols for securing data on a network. They encrypt the data flow between the server and you, in order to allow secure email exchanges.