When emails arrive on one device but not another, it can be difficult to keep up with important messages. Syncing problems are commonly caused by connection issues, account settings, outdated software, or device restrictions. The steps below will help identify the cause and restore email synchronization across your devices.

1. Verify Your Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is required for email synchronization.

• Open a website or another app to confirm you have internet access.
• If available, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to test connectivity.
• Check whether other online services are working normally.

2. Refresh Your Mailbox Manually

Sometimes a mailbox simply needs to be refreshed.

• Open your email application and refresh the inbox.
• Look for a Refresh or Sync option within the app.
• On mobile devices, pull down on the inbox screen to force a sync.

3. Restart the Affected Device

Temporary software issues can interfere with email synchronization.

• Restart the device experiencing the problem.
• Reopen the email application.
• Check whether new messages are downloading correctly.

4. Review Email Sync Settings

Email syncing must be enabled for messages to update automatically.

• Open your device's email account settings.
• Confirm that Sync Mail, Auto Sync, or Background Sync is enabled.
• Verify that the sync frequency is not set to Manual or Never.

5. Confirm Account Configuration

Incorrect account settings can prevent emails from syncing across devices.

• Verify that your account is configured using IMAP rather than POP.
• IMAP keeps email synchronized across multiple devices, while POP often downloads messages to a single device and may not keep all devices in sync.
• Confirm the email address and password are correct on each device.
• Ensure there are no account warnings or authentication prompts.

6. Update Your Device and Email Application

Software updates often resolve compatibility and synchronization issues.

• Install the latest operating system updates available for your device.
• Update your email application through the appropriate app store or software update service.
• Restart the device after updates are completed if prompted.

7. Remove and Re-Add the Email Account

If syncing issues persist, re-adding the account can refresh the connection.

• Back up any important emails before making changes.
• Remove the email account from the affected device.
• Add the account again using the correct credentials and settings.
• Allow time for the mailbox to resynchronize.

8. Test the Account Through Webmail

Checking webmail helps determine whether the issue is with the account or the device.

• Sign in to your email account using a web browser.
• Confirm that new messages are appearing in the mailbox.
• Check for storage limits, service interruptions, or security alerts.
• Review any notifications from your email provider.

If the issue continues after completing the steps above, try the following checks:

• Verify Server Settings: Confirm IMAP and SMTP server names, port numbers, and encryption settings match your email provider's recommendations.
• Disable Battery or Data Restrictions: Battery optimization and data-saving features may prevent background synchronization on mobile devices.
• Clear the Email App Cache: Clearing cached files can resolve corrupted sync data. Avoid clearing app data unless you intend to reconfigure the account.
• Check Firewall or Antivirus Software: Security software on a computer or network may block email connections.
• Confirm Date and Time Settings: Incorrect system date or time settings can cause authentication and synchronization failures.
• Test on Another Network: Connect to a different Wi-Fi or mobile network to rule out network-related issues.

• Always back up important emails before removing or re-adding an account.
• If you are unsure how to back up locally stored messages, refer to your email provider's documentation or contact your email administrator before proceeding.
• Large mailboxes may take time to fully synchronize after configuration changes.
• Avoid making repeated account changes within a short period, as some email providers may temporarily block access for security reasons.
• Only modify advanced server settings if you are confident in the changes or are following official guidance from your email provider.