PHP

Connect to an IMAP Server

Demonstrates the Chilkat Imap.Connect method, which establishes a TCP connection to the IMAP server but does not authenticate. The argument may be a hostname, IPv4, or IPv6 address; configure Ssl and Port first. This example connects with implicit TLS, then logs in and disconnects.

Background: IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is the protocol for accessing mail that stays on the server — unlike POP3, which typically downloads and removes it. That server-side model is what lets multiple devices see the same mailboxes, folders, and read/unread state. A session starts by connecting (usually implicit TLS on port 993), then authenticating — Connect performs only the first step, so it is always followed by Login.

Chilkat PHP Downloads

Download Chilkat for PHP

Chilkat2 PHP

<?php

use Chilkat2\Imap;

// Demonstrates the Imap.Connect method, which establishes a TCP connection to the IMAP
// server but does not authenticate.  Call Login after connecting to authenticate.

$imap = new Imap();

// Use implicit TLS on the standard IMAPS port.
$imap->Ssl = true;
$imap->Port = 993;

// Establish the connection to the IMAP server (no authentication yet).
try {
    $imap->Connect('imap.example.com');
} catch (\Chilkat2\Exception $e) {
    echo $e->getMessage(), "\n";
    exit;
}

echo "Connected to the IMAP server.\n";

// Authenticate the session.
try {
    $imap->Login('user@example.com', 'myPassword');

    // Disconnect when finished.
    $imap->Disconnect();
} catch (\Chilkat2\Exception $e) {
    echo $e->getMessage(), "\n";
    exit;
}