The Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) is a standard protocol for accessing, managing, and manipulating electronic messages stored within remote mail servers from local email clients.

How IMAP Relates to Managed IT:

– Facilitates efficient email access across multiple devices syncing message states between client and server.
– Supports features like shared mailboxes, search, retention rules, and collaboration essential for businesses.
– MSPs secure implementations via encryption, improve redundancy, and ensure uptime.

Example:

An architecture firm sets up a central IMAP messaging server with a public cloud MSP ensuring employees can reliably access business communication and shared inboxes when collaborating across project sites.

Key Takeaways:

– Enables client access to email stored in centralized mail systems.
– MSP partnerships strengthen availability, backup security, and access governance.
– Provides foundation for collaborative messaging needs across companies.