Mail program interface
The mail program provides you with a user interface to handle mail to and from both a local network user and a remote system user.
A mail message can be text, entered using an editor, or an ASCII file. In addition to a typed message or a file, you can send:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| system message | Informs users the system has been updated. A system message is similar to a broadcast message but is sent on the local network only. |
| secret mail | Used to send classified information. A secret mail message is encrypted. The recipient must enter a password to read it. |
| vacation message | Informs users you are on vacation. When your system receives mail in your absence, it sends a message back to the origin. The message states you are on vacation. Any mail you receive while on vacation can also be forwarded. |
When you receive mail using the mail subcommands, you can:
- Leave the mail in the system mailbox.
- Read and delete the mail.
- Forward the mail.
- Add comments to the mail.
- Store the mail in your personal mailbox (mbox).
- Store the mail in a folder you have created.
- Create and maintain an alias file or a distribution file, which directs the mail and mail messages.
The installation of sendmail is automatic.
For more information about the mail program, refer to Mail functions.