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Mathematics, Numbers, and Computers - What Is E-Mail?

What is e-mail?

E-mail is short for "electronic mail," an increasingly popular means of communication. While most e-mail is sent by computer, fax communication is also a form of e-mail.

Computer e-mail users can send a message to any number of recipients. Different systems offer various options for sending and receiving messages and for changing the text of messages. For example, a message can be "registered," so that the sender is notified when the recipient looks at the message. Many systems allow messages to be forwarded. Messages are usually stored in a simulated "mailbox" in the network server or host computer; some systems announce incoming mail if the recipient is currently "logged on," or using the system.

An organization, such as a corporation, university, or professional association, can provide e-mail facilities to its members. There are also national and international subscriber networks.

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