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how can I stop Thunderbird from automatically downloading emails?

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  • 9 have this problem
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  • Last reply by Julie2

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I do not thunderbird to automatically download my emails from my server. I want to manually click to receive emails. How do I stop the automatic download?

I do not thunderbird to automatically download my emails from my server. I want to manually click to receive emails. How do I stop the automatic download?

Chosen solution

The method mentioned above works for POP accounts, but if the account is IMAP and the IMAP server supports the IDLE command, I think you will receive notifications as soon as they arrive at the server, independent of the settings for checking mail.

http://kb.mozillazine.org/IMAP:_advanced_account_configuration#Features

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Normally Thunderbird will check mail when it first opens, and every 10 minutes thereafter. You can set Thunderbird to only retrieve mail manually in "Account Settings".

You can go into Account Settings using either:

  • application menu > Options > Account Settings
  • tap the Alt key > Tools menu > Account Settings

Then click into the Server Settings category to deselect automatic checking.

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Chosen Solution

The method mentioned above works for POP accounts, but if the account is IMAP and the IMAP server supports the IDLE command, I think you will receive notifications as soon as they arrive at the server, independent of the settings for checking mail.

http://kb.mozillazine.org/IMAP:_advanced_account_configuration#Features

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Thanks! I'm new to Thunderbird.

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More good information, and much appreciated!