(1) A stand-alone mail server that plugs into the network to provide e-mail for an organization. Typically rack-mounted hardware, the device includes software that provides the message store and transfer agent (see mail server and messaging system). Users access their mail with a client program in their computers or via a Web browser. See server appliance and e-mail.
(2) A client device specialized for accessing e-mail. Pocket-sized models are designed for portability, while desktop models are geared for ease of use and eliminate the need to turn a computer on and launch an e-mail program just to check mail. Such devices connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi, cellular data service or analog modem. See Internet appliance and Internet server appliance.
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