IMAP and POP are the standard protocols for retrieving emails. You have the option to choose either IMAP or POP as your incoming mail protocol. Incoming mail: IMAP on, using Secure Socket Layer (SSL).In the above case, the provider data has been used to fill in the account details and configure the services offered: When you click Continue, Thunderbird will look up the email provider and attempt to determine the server settings.

Under 'Create a new account' 'Set up an account', click 'Email' to display the dialog box shown below.

Under the 'Accounts' heading there are two options: 'View settings for this account' and 'Create a new account' 'Set up an account'. Another way to add a new account is to click on an existing account name (the displayed email address). The dialog box is also displayed when you add a new email account (using File > New > Existing Mail Account… or via the Account Settings). Next you will be asked to provide details about your email account in the dialog box shown below. (At this stage close any windows that propose to set up an email service and carry on). The first time you open Thunderbird after installing, you are prompted to create a profile. Your computer must be connected to the Internet for Thunderbird to create your account automatically.

Configure thunderbird for gmail