ELECTRONIC MAIL

abbreviation E-mail, messages transmitted and received by digital computers through a network. An electronic-mail, or E-mail, system allows computer users on a network to send text, graphics, and sometimes sounds and animated images to other users. On most networks, data can be simultaneously sent to a universe of users or to a select group or individual. Network users typically have an electronic mailbox that receives, stores, and manages their correspondence. Recipients can elect to view, print, save, edit, answer, or otherwise react to communications. Many E-mail systems have advanced features that alert users to incoming messages or permit them to employ special privacy features. Large corporations and institutions use E-mail systems as an important communication link among employees and other people allowed on their networks. E-mail is also available on major public on-line and bulletin board systems, many of which maintain free or low-cost global communication networks.