Features of email

• automatic reply to messages
• auto-forward and redirection of messages
• facility to send copies of a message to many people
• automatic filing and retrieval of messages
• addresses can be stored in an address book and retrieved instantly
• notification if message cannot be delivered
• automatically date and time stamped
• signatures can be attached
• Files, graphics or sound can be sent as attachments, often in compressed formats.
• Webmail and mobile email can be used to receive and send messages while on the move.

Using email

Broadband email

Your connection is always on - so simply write and address your message and hit 'send' to send your mail and 'receive' to download any incoming messages from your email provider's server.

Webmail

Connect to the internet (if using a dial-up account) and open your browser. Navigate to your webmail provider's portal and enter your user-name and password, all incoming mail will now be visible. You can compose and send mail, and download attachments to your computer. When you're done, log out and close your connection.

Dial-up email

Prepare your message offlineoffline: Not connected to the internet. as typing your message onlineonline : Connected to the internet. will increase phone charges. Connect to the internetInternet : A global network connecting millions of computers. and log on to your email account, send your message and download any incoming mail sitting on your service provider's computer. When you're done, log off and close your connection.

The evolution of email

• Many mobile phones already allow messages to be sent to the recipient's email inbox while the sender is on the move. The latest generation of mobile phones enables users to send and receive wireless email in exactly the same way as a static computer.
• Email can be sent and received via digital TV, specially adapted phones, public kiosk terminals and the latest generation of games console.
• A spreading network of wireless 'hotspots' in public places allows people to send and receive email via laptop computers.
• A new range of in-car phones will enable motorists to check their email on the road.