Free POP3 Access

Determine the best free POP3 access for your business

Finding a free email provider with POP access that meets your needs might not be as difficult as you think. POP stands for "Post Office Protocol," and the "3" identifies a specific version of the POP account.

Sometimes businesses prefer to open several free POP3 accounts; each account represents a different facet of the business. Free email accounts benefit freelancers like writers, who might have one email address for magazine work and another for contract jobs. When you get ready to configure your POP3 account, you'll need to have some basic information at hand:

1. Know the name of the (ISP) Internet Service Provider's mail server where you get free POP3 access.

2. Write down the name of the free email account assigned to you; your ISP provides this information.

3. Set up a password for your free POP email account.

Select a free mail server to access POP3 accounts

When you compare free email account programs, consider options such as storage space and email tools to see what works best for your business. Companies that offer free POP3 email must actually provide the free service or be liable for false advertising. Generally, if the company charges for services, the cost buys you additional features or upgraded services.

Enroll in a program with a free mail server to access POP account

Once you have weighed the pros and cons of each free mail server, sign up for an account and follow directions on the website to begin using your free email. You will have to provide a unique user name and a password to sign in.

Access POP3 Accounts with Mozilla Thunderbird or Microsoft Outlook

Many business PCs come with Microsoft Outlook already installed. Many people use Outlook and appreciate its features. Others feel that a free email program like Mozilla Thunderbird offers more security and better options. Both programs allow you to download POP3 email with simple setup instructions and give you the opportunity to work off line.

Take an online or DVD tutorial to learn about using free POP mail server access

Most free POP mail comes with a basic tutorial, but a detailed tutorial helps you learn the advanced options for free POP access. A tutorial not only shows you how to set up your account, it also offers tips on using your account more effectively. Since you have many options to choose from for email, use the provider's specific tutorial, which gives you the inside scoop on your particular program.

• When you use a free mail server to access POP accounts, you have a choice of leaving a copy of your message on the server. If your computer crashes, you are still able to retrieve email messages stored online.

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