imappass

Imappass is a shorthand term used in some network administration and email client documentation to refer to the password associated with IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) authentication for a mailbox. It is not an official protocol name, but appears in configuration guides to distinguish the IMAP login credential from SMTP or POP credentials. In practice, imappass is entered in client settings as the password for the user's IMAP account, typically alongside a username that identifies the mailbox on the host server.

Usage and transport: When an email client connects to an IMAP server, it sends the imap username and the imappass as part of the login process. If the connection is not encrypted, the credentials may be exposed in transit; modern deployments require TLS. Some providers support alternatives such as OAuth 2.0 or app-specific passwords in place of a traditional password for IMAP access.

Security considerations: Reusing the same imappass across services increases the risk of credential exposure. Best practices include enabling two-factor authentication where available, using app-specific passwords if supported, employing a password manager to generate strong, unique credentials, and ensuring the IMAP connection is secured with TLS (often via IMAPS on port 993).

Variants and related terms: The concept is closely related to app passwords and OAuth tokens used for IMAP access, as well as general password management practices. Some providers offer temporary or token-based access methods that can replace fixed imappass credentials for certain clients or apps.

See also: IMAP, IMAPS, OAuth 2.0, app password, password manager, two-factor authentication.