An incoming mail server is a computer that stores and routes email to the correct address. It is responsible for retrieving and storing emails from other servers in your mailbox. The incoming mail server can retrieve emails using a variety of protocols, such as POP3 and IMAP. POP3 is short for Post Office Protocol, while IMAP is short for Internet Message Access Protocol. When you receive an email, it goes through different stopping points (servers) before reaching your inbox, and the incoming mail server plays a crucial role in this process.

To find your incoming mail server, you can access the settings on your web-based email or search the FAQ to find “incoming mail server” answers. If your email comes from your service provider, you can check your online account or contact them to learn the server name. The incoming mail server is as important as the outgoing server since you’ll want to respond to some of those incoming emails.

In contrast, the server that lets you send mail is called an outgoing or SMTP server. The outgoing mail server controls all the necessary steps for sending emails. SMTP servers work with other types of mail servers, namely POP3 or IMAP, to send emails from email clients.

In summary, an incoming mail server is responsible for receiving and storing emails from other servers in your mailbox, while an outgoing mail server is responsible for sending emails.