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Email FAQs

What is a mail server?

A mail server is a computer that sends, receives, and stores email messages for users. When you send a message to somebody, the mail server figures out where that person's mailbox is stored, and forwards the message to them.

What is a mail client? What is a mail reader?

A mail client, or mail reader, is a program that you use to connect to Earthnet's mail server. This program knows how to get your messages from the server, and send new messages through the server. Several popular mail clients are Outlook Express, Netscape, Eudora, etc.

Where are my messages stored?

That depends on what type of mail protocol you use, and how your mail client is set up. Usually, unless you specify otherwise when you are setting up your mail client, the messages are stored on your computer.

How much storage space do I have?

You have 10 Megabytes of storage space on the server. If you let it fill up, messages sent to you will bounce until you clear out some space in your inbox.

What is my email address?

You chose your email address when you signed up for Earthnet service. Your email address will end with @earthnet.net. If you don't remember your email address, click here to ask an Earthnet technician.

What is POP3 mail?

POP3 stands for Post Office Protocol, version 3. A POP server stores mail in your inbox until a POP client downloads it to the user's local PC. The messages are then stored on the user's PC only, they are no longer available on the server. POP3 is the most common mail protocol for Earthnet users.

What is IMAP mail?

IMAP stands for Internet Messaging Access Protocol. Unlike POP3, an IMAP server stores mail messages on the server. The IMAP client may view messages directly from the server, or download copies of the messages so that the user can read them and compose replies while offline.

The main advantage of IMAP is that messages are stored on the server, so you can read your email from several different computers. The disadvantage is that because the messages stay on the server until you delete them, you will fill up your quota quickly.

What is Webmail?

Webmail is a way of sending and reading messages through any web browser. You don't have to do any configuration to use webmail on a computer, so it is ideal for people who travel or who have to check their email from multiple locations. The downside to Webmail is that it doesn't offer as many features as a full-blown mail client such as Outlook. Webmail comes enabled by default on all Earthnet email addresses. Click here to learn how to use it.

What mail clients does Earthnet support?

Click here for a complete list of supported mail clients, and installation instructions.

How do I set up a Vacation Notice?

You can manage your vacation notice through Earthnet Webmail. Click Here for instructions.

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