POP3 e-mail systems is the most common Email system found on the internet today. Is is the ideal messaging system for most individuals and small businesses. Emails are delivered to a ‘post office’ box (email account) and stored on a server until an email client logs in and downloads the messages to a PC. Combined with Webmail (IMAP), a POP email account can also provide some remote access ability to view ‘new’ messages whilst your on the road.

However when Mobility and Information Sharing becomes more important for a business or individual, the natural progression is to move to a Microsoft Exchange service. Central to Microsoft Exchange is the Exchange Server* which which facilitates the storage and collaboration between individuals. Users log into the exchange server and synchronise their devices with the server. Whether this be a mobile phone (smart phone), laptop, or desktop computer. No matter where the individual is and what device he/she is using, their communication device is synchronised. Which means when you’re on the road and access Webmail, you’re not only viewing new messages that have arrived in your inbox, but all your old messages as well. And because all the information is stored on a central server, it makes it easier to share information like calendar appointments, address book, and important work documents with your colleagues.

* The latest server platform is Exchange Server 2003