Google offers a popular web-based email service called Gmail. All you need to access a Gmail account is an Internet connection and a web browser, which makes it an especially handy service for frequent travelers.
When you're at home, though, you may find it annoying to keep both Mail and a web browser open, just to make sure you receive all of your daily email. It's much easier to use a single application, and it certainly makes keeping your mail organized a much easier task.
You can create an account in Mail specifically for accessing Gmail; no browser necessary. Here's how:
If You Use Mail 3.x or Later
- Select 'Add Account' from Mail's File menu.
- The Add Account guide will appear.
- Enter your Gmail email address and password.
- Mail will recognize the Gmail address and offer to automatically set up the account.
- Place a check mark in the ‘Automatically set up the account’ box.
- Click the 'Create' button.
That’s all there is to it; Mail is ready to grab your Gmail.
If You Use Mail 2.x
You can still create a Gmail account in Mail, but you'll need to set up the account manually, just as you would any other IMAP-based email account. Here are the settings and information you'll need:
- Account type: Select IMAP.
- Email address: gmailusername@gmail.com
- Password: Enter your Gmail password.
- User name: Your Gmail address without the ‘@gmail.com.’
- Incoming Mail Server: imap.gmail.com.
- Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP): smtp.gmail.com.
Once you supply the above information, Mail should be able to access your Gmail account.
