Knowledgebase

For messages, users should set up an account within Thunderbird using either IMAP or POP3.

IMAP is a newer protocol that keeps all messages and folders on the server. In addition, IMAP idle is an optional feature of the IMAP protocol that pushes all new messages to Thunderbird as they are received by the mail server. Unlike POP, IMAP offers two-way communication between your SmarterMail mailbox and your email client(s). This means when you log in to the SmarterMail Web interface, actions you performed on email clients and mobile devices will automatically appear in the Web interface (and vice versa).

With POP3, your mail is saved in a mailbox on the remote server until you check your mail. When you check your mail, all of the mail is downloaded to your computer and is no longer maintained on the server. If you use POP3 and are traveling or check your mail from multiple locations, you will not be able to view any of your old mail because the messages only exist on  the computer on which you originally received your mail. NOTE: If you have enabled Outlook to keep messages on the server, you will be able to access your messages and folders from any computer via the SmarterMail Web interface or your mobile device.

Follow these steps to create a Thunderbird 6 IMAP account:

1. In Thunderbird, go to Tools and Account Settings. Below the Settings list click Account Actionsthen Add Mail Account.
2. Enter the following information:
   Click Continue.
   • Your Name:
   • Email address:
   • Password:
3. After Thunderbird detects your settings, select either IMAP or POP, depending on which method you would like to receive your emails. If your configuration could not automatically be detected, see the steps below regarding manual configuration.
4. Click Create Account.

Manual Configuration:

1. Follow steps 1 through 3 from the steps listed above.
2. After Thunderbird fails to recognize your mail settings, click Manual config.
3. For the incoming server, select which method of retrieval you prefer, from the drop down list, and enter your mail hostname or servername into the Server hostname field.
4. Select the port your mail server requires (Default for IMAP:143, Default for POP: 110) and select the appropriate SSL setting based on your server configuration.
5. Leave Authentication set to Autodetect.
6. For the Outgoing server, enter your server hostname and you may select your port and the SSL setting, and leave the Authentication on Autodetect.
7. For the username, enter your full email address.
8. Click Re-Test.
9. Once the test has finished, click Create Account.