Difference Between SMTP and POP3

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) and POP3 (Post Office Protocol 3) are two different protocols used in email communication.

SMTP:

SMTP is used for sending outgoing emails from a client to a server or between servers. It is responsible for the delivery of emails.

POP3:

POP3, on the other hand, is used for receiving incoming emails from a server to a client. It allows users to retrieve their emails from the server.

Main Differences:

• SMTP is for sending emails, while POP3 is for receiving emails.
• SMTP is used to send emails from client to server, while POP3 is used to download emails from the server to the client.
• SMTP operates on port 25, while POP3 operates on port 110.
• SMTP does not store emails, while POP3 stores emails on the server until they are downloaded.

Overall, SMTP and POP3 are two essential protocols that work together to ensure the smooth functioning of email communication.