Email is a way to send digital messages over computer networks, mainly the Internet. You need an email address to send and receive messages. An address looks like name@example.com.
How it works
- You write a message in an email program (the mail user agent).
- When you send, your program talks to your mail server (SMTP) to deliver the message.
- The mail server passes the message to the recipient’s mail server, which stores it until the recipient checks their mail.
- The recipient uses another program or a webmail site to read and reply.
- You don’t have to be online at the same time as the person you’re emailing.
Inside a message
- An email has a header (To, From, Subject, Date, and other information) and a body (the message text).
- The body can be plain text or HTML. Attachments (documents, images) are common and are handled with MIME.
- Email addresses and some parts can use non-English characters with newer standards.
A quick history
- Email started in the 1960s–70s. The first ARPANET mail was sent in 1971.
- The @ symbol became part of addresses, and SMTP began to be used for sending mail.
- POP and IMAP emerged for reading mail, while MIME added multimedia and different character sets.
- Today, SMTP handles sending, and POP/IMAP handle reading, with many people using webmail.
Plain text vs HTML
- Plain text is simple and reliable.
- HTML lets you add links, images, and formatting, but it can be larger and may pose security risks (phishing). Many people prefer plain text for safety.
Security and privacy
- Email can be read or altered as it travels between servers if not protected.
- Encryption helps: TLS (transport encryption) protects mail between servers; end-to-end options like PGP/GPG or S/MIME protect the content itself.
- Attachments can carry viruses or malware, so be careful with what you open.
Today’s use
- Email is essential for work, school, and everyday life. People read and send emails on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- It’s common to use both apps and webmail to access mail from anywhere.
- Spam is a major challenge, but there are tools to filter it.
Tips for safe use
- Use trusted providers and strong passwords.
- Be cautious with unexpected emails and attachments.
- Use encryption when you need extra privacy.
- Keep important messages and attachments backed up.
Email remains a core way to communicate in business and personal life, evolving with new devices and security measures.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 01:59 (CET).