Want to send, receive or view emails from anywhere and from any browser? A Webmail is just what you need. It offers you a range of advantages and can be used as long as you have a good internet connection, regardless of where you are located… To help you see more clearly, we invite you to discover in this article everything what you need to know about this online email client . Shall we board?
What is Webmail?
Webmail is an online email client that runs on a web server. Generally, to access your emails, there are two main methods.
- The first is to use mail software preinstalled on a laptop or smartphone such as: “ Gmail ”, “ Outlook ” or even “ Express ”.
- The second method, for its part, consists of connecting to a web server directly from a browser; hence the designation Webmail.
Simply go to the home page of the email service you use from any computer, enter your credentials... and start by reading or managing all your emails. Very practical, especially when you travel a lot! 😉
In short, Webmail is a web interface that allows you to view, receive or send emails directly in a web browser .
This article might interest you: How to block unwanted emails?
Advantages and disadvantages of Webmail
A major advantage of Webmails : They have such a large storage capacity that it is no longer necessary to manage the contents of the mailbox. Everything can now be recorded, especially the reception of large files such as videos or software. All your data (attachments and correspondence) is stored on the server and is therefore accessible from any computer connected to the web.
Another advantage: you no longer need to install anything on your computer or smartphone. In addition to this, you will no longer have to regularly make updates to correct security vulnerabilities, possible bugs or add new features to the software. The most important thing is to make sure that the browser you are using is up to date.
The only negative point to highlight: confidentiality. Be sure to log out of your email account when you have finished your consultation so that people who use your computer after you cannot access it. Don't forget to permanently delete your account from the browser if necessary.
Before continuing, we advise you to watch this very informative video on Webmail and the email client:
Webmail or direct email client?
If you have followed this carefully, you will already understand that there are two different ways to use your email: Webmail and the email client or email client software. The latter is pre-installed on your computer device, which includes that you cannot access your email if your smartphone or computer is dysfunctional. Webmail, on the other hand, will allow you to check your emails from any device as long as you have a good internet connection and remember your login details. So, which of the two should you prefer? Which of the two is more advantageous? Let’s dissect!
Offline use: advantages of email client software
When you use email client software, it downloads and stores messages on your computer's hard drive. So you can consult them whenever you want. In contrast, Webmail only reflects existing emails on the mail server. It does not store messages on the terminal used. Therefore, you cannot view your messages in offline mode (unlike email clients).
Security: advantage of Webmail
When Webmail is properly configured, it offers two advantages in terms of security: First, it does not store the emails you receive on your computer's hard drive or in your phone's memory. In addition, it is necessarily and always accessible via a secure SSL connection network.
Features: advantage of e-mail client software
One of the benefits of email client software is that it offers advanced features that most webmails don't have, such as archiving emails to free up space on your server.
Read also: Gmail: disconnect your account remotely to protect your privacy! Tips
How to access your Webmail? Gmail for illustration purposes!
Gmail being the most used email client in the world, we use it to show you how to log in to your mailbox from a browser.
To do this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Type www.gmail.com into your browser's address bar
Step 2: Click on the login button present in the upper right corner
Step 3: Enter your connection information then validate.
You will have instant access to your inbox!
Tip: You can also go directly to the login page by entering https://accounts.google.com/AccountChooser in your browser.