Gmail as a desktop app (Windows & Mac)

Gmail can be used as a desktop-style app on both Windows and Mac computers. This works by installing Gmail as an app using a web browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Once installed, Gmail opens in its own window, appears on your taskbar or Dock, and behaves like a normal desktop application.

What you will need

• A Windows PC or Mac
• Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge installed
• A Gmail account

Install Gmail as a desktop app

1) Open Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

2) Visit https://mail.google.com and sign in to your Gmail account.

3) Look at the address bar at the top of the browser.

You should see an install icon (a computer screen with a down arrow or a + symbol) on the right-hand side of the address bar.

4) Click this icon and select Install Gmail.

5) Confirm when prompted.

Using Gmail on your desktop

Once installed:

• Gmail opens in its own window (not a browser tab)
• Gmail appears in the Start Menu (Windows) or Dock (Mac)
• Gmail can be pinned for quick access
• Notifications work like a normal app

You can open Gmail just like any other desktop program.

Using your Seren Web email with Gmail

Google has removed the ability for Gmail to directly collect mail from other email accounts using POP.

This means Gmail (desktop or web) will not automatically fetch email from your Seren Web account.

To receive Seren Web email in Gmail, you must use one of the following methods:

• Set up email forwarding from your Seren Web account to Gmail
• Use the Gmail mobile app (which supports adding external accounts)
• Use a traditional mail program such as Thunderbird or Outlook (classic)

Is Gmail as a desktop app right for you?

Good choice if:
• You mainly use Gmail already
• You want a clean, simple desktop interface
• You do not need advanced mail server settings

Not ideal if:
• You want direct POP or IMAP control
• You manage multiple hosted email accounts
• You rely on advanced troubleshooting options

Recommended alternatives

If Gmail does not suit your needs, consider:

• Mozilla Thunderbird (Windows & Mac)
• Outlook (classic desktop – Windows)
• Apple Mail (Mac)
• Seren Web Webmail (any computer)

A note about forwarding email to Gmail

Forwarding email from your Seren Web account to Gmail is generally safe for low to moderate volumes of normal, person-to-person email.

However, email forwarding is not recommended for:

• High volumes of email
• Automated messages (contact forms, order notifications, scripts)
• Newsletter or marketing email

Forwarding large or automated volumes can affect mail delivery and reputation. If you receive a lot of automated email, it is better to use a traditional mail program (such as Thunderbird or Outlook classic) or access your email via Webmail.

Need help?

If you are unsure which email program is best for you, or would like help setting one up, please contact Mike for help.