Want to send, receive, or check emails from anywhere and from any browser? A webmail service is exactly what you need. It offers a host of advantages and is usable as long as you have a good internet connection, no matter where you are. To help you get started, this article will tell you everything you need to know about this online email client . Ready to get started?
What is Webmail?
Webmail is an email client that works online and runs on a web server. Generally, there are two main methods for accessing emails.
- The first option is to use email software pre-installed on a laptop or smartphone such as: " Gmail ", " Outlook " or " Express ".
- The second method, on the other hand, consists of connecting to a web server directly from a browser; hence the designation Webmail.
Simply go to the homepage of your email service from any computer, enter your login details… and start reading or managing all your emails. Very handy, especially if 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 a Webmail
A major advantage of webmail is its vast storage capacity, eliminating the need to manage the contents of your mailbox. Everything can now be saved, including large files like videos and software. All your data (attachments and messages) is stored on the server and is therefore accessible from any computer connected to the internet.
Another advantage: you no longer need to install anything on your computer or smartphone. Furthermore, you won't have to regularly perform updates to fix security vulnerabilities, potential bugs, or add new features to the software. Most importantly, make sure your browser is up to date.
The only downside to note is privacy. Be sure to log out of your email account when you've finished browsing so that people who use your computer after you can't access it. If necessary, remember to permanently delete your account from the browser.
Before continuing, we recommend that you watch this very informative video about Webmail and email clients:
Webmail or direct email client?
If you've been following along, you'll already understand that there are two different ways to use your email: webmail and an email client. The latter is pre-installed on your computer, which means you can't access your inbox if your smartphone or computer is malfunctioning. Webmail, on the other hand, allows you to check your emails from any device, provided you have a good internet connection and remember your login details. So, which one should you choose? Which one is more advantageous? Let's break it down!
Offline use: advantages of email client software
When you use an email client, it downloads and stores messages on your computer's hard drive. This allows you to access them whenever you want. Webmail, on the other hand, only displays emails that exist on the mail server. It doesn't store messages on the device you're using. Therefore, you can't view your messages offline (unlike with email clients).
Security: Webmail has the advantage
When properly configured, webmail offers two security advantages: First, it doesn't store the emails you receive on your computer's hard drive or in your phone's memory. Second, it is always accessible via a secure SSL connection.
Features: Advantages of email client software
One of the advantages of email client software is that it offers advanced features that most webmails do not 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 do I access my webmail? Gmail is an example!
Since Gmail is the most widely used email client in the world, we'll use it to show you how to connect to your inbox from a browser.
To do this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Enter www.gmail.com in your browser's address bar
Step 2: Click on the login button located in the upper right corner
Step 3: Enter your login information and then confirm.
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.
