[Dovecot] IMAP vs. POP3

Jim Pazarena dovecot at paz.bz
Thu Apr 28 21:12:44 EEST 2011


On 2011-04-28 10:31 AM, Matt wrote:
> Does IMAP create much additional system load vs. POP3?

I would say it adds considerable load to the server.
The beauty is that multiple computers can synchronize all mail
folders INCLUDING the Outbox/Sent folder to the common archive,
which becomes the mail server itself.

Is see little advantage if a single computer is involved other
than using the mail server as a backup.

Even with a single computer however, if one uses (also) a webmail
client such as roundcube etc, then IMAP once again permits
synchronizing between the webmail and the single computer.

In an environment such as mine, 2 laptops, a desktop, and
at times, webmail, it is a necessity. These days (also) mobile
mail such as on an iPhone is handier with IMAP.

Weigh all this against more drive space required, and more resources
such as extra processes running on the server.


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