Differences Between MAPI, POP, And IMAP

What Are The Differences Between MAPI, POP, And IMAP When Connecting To Exchange Mailboxes?

MAPI connections to the Exchange server provide you with full functionality of all of the services Exchange has to offer using Outlook:

• Direct live connection to the mail server
• Shared Inbox, Calendar, Contacts, Tasks, Notes and free/busy information for scheduling
• Public folders
• Out of Office Assistant
• Server-side rules and alerts
• Optional server-side spam management

IMAP connections to the Exchange server allow limited functionality:

• Direct live connection to the mail server

POP Connections offer the least functionality:

• Send and receive email only

All connection types allow you to keep messages on the server and to view your mailbox using Outlook Web Access in any web browser.