A method and apparatus for dynamically updating settings of an electronic mail client of a client device is disclosed. In one embodiment, as the client device moves to different network environments, the settings of the electronic mail client are automatically updated to account for each network's characteristics and operational requirements. In another embodiment, the settings of the electronic mail client are automatically updated to account for changes (e.g., upgrades) at a particular server. The settings can be updated based on network information or server information from received from another device.