> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.riggery.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Watch a mailbox

> IMAP poll starts a Run when new mail arrives.

**IMAP poll** watches a mailbox without calling the model until there is new mail. **IMAP fetch** is a Tool that reads messages when a Run already started. Do not mix them. See [IMAP poll](/graph/triggers/imap-poll) and [IMAP fetch](/graph/tools/imap-fetch).

<Steps>
  <Step title="Add IMAP poll">
    On the Graph, **Add a node** → **IMAP poll**. Set **Poll interval (minutes)** and **Run concurrency**. Optionally set [Inbound files](/graph/triggers#inbound-files).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Publish and pin">
    **Publish**, then on Overview **Stop** if needed and **Update to vN**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect the mailbox">
    On [Connections](/instance/connections#imap) fill Host, Port, TLS / SSL, User, Password, Folder. Prefer `{{secret:Name}}`. **Save IMAP**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start listening">
    On [Overview](/instance/overview), **Start**. Last activity shows IMAP checks while Watching.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Shared mailbox">
    If several Instances use the same inbox, choose **Shared** or **Only this Instance**. See [Shared mailbox](/instance/overview#mailbox).
  </Step>
</Steps>

Chat in the app still does not need Start. Incoming mail does.