Basic eMail Help Needed!

[jparker402]

I apologize beforehand if this is a confusing post, because I am confused! Until some five years or so ago I was using a Microsoft-based computer and was using Outlook Express (as best I recall) for my email program. At that time I was using Windstream.net as my ISP. Then I bought my MacBook Air and attempted to set that up using the seat of my pants with assistance from Apple Help over the phone. That evolution didn't go entirely smoothly due to my ineptitude and impatience (spending two hours late at night trying to get something done wears me out on most projects). In the end I don't know what I finally ended up with except that I did manage (I think) to get all my old "email stuff" to work on my Mac. My problem is that when i get a new Mac to program, I have no idea what I have in there now for sure!

Right now my ISP is Cox Cable because I moved into an assisted living apartment. I keep Windstream.net as my email address, and I can, if I wanted, access my email through them.

If I select Mail > About > Mail Version 13.4. If I select Mail > Preferences > Default email reader = Mail. If I select Mail > Preferences > Accounts = Google ( have a google email address as a backup), Windstream, and iCloud (not being used).

My questions are (1) what email program do I have now and (2) what do I do in the future to switch entirely to Apple's Mail if I am not already on it? I will wish to keep my Windstream address so that I don't have to try to get all my contacts to change my address in their contacts lists. Thanks!

 

[Dave Braine]

My problem is that when i get a new Mac to program, I have no idea what I have in there now for sure!

That problem would be solved by using Apple's Migration Assistant. This will transfer erything across to your new Mac.

Transfer to a new Mac with Migration Assistant – Apple Support (UK)

Use Migration Assistant to copy your files from another computer.

support.apple.com

Failing that, to use your Windstream.net email account with Apple's Mail, from Mail's main Menu, choose "Add Account". From the drop down, choose "Other Mail Account". Enter Name, Email address and Password, and then Mail should set up your account.

 

[jparker402]

To find the answer to #1, is there a way to see what email software I am running? Going to some directory somewhere to see what is loaded? Or have I already done that with Mail > About and Mail > Preferences?

 

[Dave Braine]

Yes, Mail > Preferences>Accounts should list any email accounts that you have set up using Mail. As will System Prefs>Internet Accounts.

 

[satcomer]

You have to educate yourself about email server technology and the difference between POP Email and IMAP Email. Then you should want a email service that uses IMAP!

 

[jparker402]

My email services are both through IMAP.