E-mail Basics

E-mail (electronic mail) is very similar to the mail the postal carrier delivers to your home or office— except it arrives much faster.

E-mail saves time and helps you communicate more frequently.

See also ...

For more information on e-mail, see online Help and also the MSN e-mail tutorial. Access the tutorial from the Start Page. Click Help, then select Take a Tour, and then choose e-mail.

What Is E-mail?

When someone calls you on the telephone, you pick it up and you have a conversation with the caller. It's an immediate exchange with the caller. With a letter sent by the post office, someone writes the letter, puts it in an envelope, puts a stamp on it, and puts it in a mailbox. You get it days later. You read and respond to the letter at your leisure, a process that takes days.

E-mail is a little like both. Electronic mail is delivered almost at the speed of a telephone conversation but doesn't require immediate attention like a telephone call. E-mail is delivered more quickly than post office mail (often called snail mail because it is slow in comparison) and it’s closer to the informality of a telephone conversation.

With e-mail, you use your keyboard and telephone line instead of a pen, paper, and stamps. You type a message to the recipient and send it through the Web. You can send and receive e-mail to and from anyone in the world who has an e-mail account.

Your MSN™ Companion mail service looks like this:

5-2 E-MAIL

HOME INTERNET APPLIANCE–GETTING STARTED

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HP Internet Appliances manual Mail Basics, What Is E-mail?

Internet Appliances specifications

HP Internet Appliances are designed to provide users with a user-friendly experience focused on web browsing, online communication, and access to digital content. These devices emerge from the convergence of computing and internet access, emphasizing simplicity and functionality to meet the growing needs of consumers in the digital age.

One of the primary features of HP Internet Appliances is their streamlined operating system, which is often based on a lightweight version of Linux or a custom user interface. This allows for quick boot times and a fast response to user input, minimizing the time spent waiting for applications to load. The interface is typically designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users of all ages to navigate through various online services without the steep learning curve associated with traditional PCs.

Connectivity is a vital characteristic of HP Internet Appliances. Most models come equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports, ensuring that users can easily connect to the internet. The appliances often support multiple wireless standards, providing flexibility in connection options. Additionally, many devices feature integrated browsers optimized for performance and security, allowing seamless access to a wide array of web applications and services.

Multimedia functionalities are also a highlight of these devices. HP Internet Appliances usually boast enhanced audio and visual capabilities, making them suitable for streaming video content, online gaming, and video conferencing. They often come with high-definition displays and integrated speakers, enhancing the overall user experience.

Security features are integrated into HP Internet Appliances to protect users from online threats. Basic security measures such as firewalls and parental controls are often included, ensuring that families can use these devices with confidence. Regular software updates are also provided to keep the systems secure and up-to-date with the latest features.

The compact design is another noteworthy characteristic. HP Internet Appliances are often lightweight and portable, allowing users to place them in various locations within their homes or offices. The energy-efficient design ensures that these devices consume less power compared to traditional desktops, making them a more eco-friendly option.

In conclusion, HP Internet Appliances effectively cater to the needs of today's internet users. With their emphasis on ease of use, robust connectivity, multimedia capabilities, and security features, they stand out as practical solutions for anyone looking to enhance their digital lifestyle without the complexity of traditional computing.