How to Fix Email Not Syncing Across Devices

How to Fix Email Not Syncing Across Devices

When your emails aren’t syncing across your phone, tablet, and computer, it can lead to missed messages and frustration. This article explains the most common causes of email sync issues and provides clear, step-by-step instructions to resolve them. You’ll find solutions for both beginners and advanced users to help restore proper email syncing across all devices.

Easy Steps to Fix Email Syncing

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection

Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection.

  • Open a website or app to confirm connectivity.
  • Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data if available.

Step 2: Refresh or Manually Sync Your Email

Open your email app and refresh the inbox.

  • Look for a Refresh or Sync option.
  • On mobile, pull down on the inbox to force a sync.

Step 3: Restart Your Device

Restarting can clear temporary software issues.

  • Restart the affected device.
  • Reopen your email app and check for new messages.

Step 4: Check Email Sync Settings

Verify that syncing is enabled.

  • Ensure Sync Mail or Background Sync is turned on.
  • Check that sync frequency is not set to Manual or Never.

Step 5: Confirm Account Type and Settings (Intermediate)

Make sure your email account is configured correctly.

  • Use IMAP for syncing across multiple devices.
  • Confirm your email address and password are correct on all devices.

Step 6: Update Your Device and Email App

Outdated software can cause sync problems.

  • Install the latest operating system updates.
  • Update your email app from the app store.

Step 7: Remove and Re-add the Email Account

If issues persist, re-add the account.

  • Back up important emails first.
  • Remove the account from the device and add it again using the correct settings.

Step 8: Check Email via Webmail

Log in through your browser to confirm the account is working.

  • Check for storage limits.
  • Look for service outages or security alerts.

Advanced Troubleshooting Tips

Verify Server Settings: Confirm IMAP/SMTP server names, ports, and encryption match your provider’s recommendations.

Disable Battery or Data Restrictions: Battery optimisation and data-saving modes may block background syncing on mobile devices.

Clear App Cache: Clearing the app cache can resolve corrupted sync files (do not clear data unless you plan to re-add the account).

Check Firewall or Antivirus Software: Security software may block email connections on computers or networks.

Confirm Date and Time Settings: Incorrect system time can cause sync failures.

Test on Another Network: Try a different Wi-Fi or mobile network to rule out network-related issues.

Important Notes

  • Always back up important emails before removing or re-adding accounts.
  • Allow time for emails to fully resync, especially for large mailboxes.
  • Avoid making repeated changes quickly, as this can trigger security blocks.
  • Only adjust advanced server settings if you are confident or following official guidance.

FAQs

1. Why does email sync on one device but not another?
This is often caused by different sync settings, outdated apps, or POP configuration instead of IMAP.

2. Will I lose emails if I remove my account?
IMAP accounts store emails on the server and will resync. POP accounts may store emails locally, so back up first.

3. Can low storage affect email syncing?
Yes. Full device or mailbox storage can prevent new emails from syncing.

4. Does changing my password affect syncing?
Yes. You must update the new password on all devices to restore syncing.

5. Why does syncing stop when my device is locked?
Battery optimisation or background restrictions may pause syncing when the device is idle.

Still Having Trouble?

Most email syncing issues can be resolved by checking your connection, verifying settings, and ensuring your account is properly configured. This guide covers both basic and advanced steps to help you restore syncing across all devices. If the issue remains unresolved, please contact Swazzy Support for further assistance.

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