1. Introduction
The intent of this document is to explain how email works, and answer
some of the questions that appear to meet the definition of
`frequently asked questions' about e-mail software under Linux.
Modern Linux distributions give you a usable, preconfigured
setup for electronic mail out of the box, usually featuring a late
version of
sendmail-v8.
This HOWTO will assume that you have such a setup and a working
Internet connection.
(For information on how to set up a PPP or SLIP link to an ISP,
see the ISP
Hookup HOWTO.)
Accordingly, unlike Vince Skahan's 1.x versions, this HOWTO focuses on
user issues and architecture; most technical hair about UUCP, IDA
sendmail and other formerly important topics has been dropped.
1.2. Hardware requirements for email programs
There are no specific hardware requirements for mail under Linux.
If you have the hardware necessary to connect to the Internet, it
can support email over that link.
1.3. Software sources for email programs
The software you will need for email support is probably
preinstalled in your Linux distribution. You will find updates on the
Metalab Linux
Archive, especially in the mail
subdirectory.