Using the Mail Console Client

The most basic client for creating and reading e-mail is the mail command. Although it doesn't have many advanced features, it is fast. So some Linux users like to use it for sending simple messages. (It is also sometimes used in scripts.)

To read mail, open a command console, log on using the account whose mail you want to read, and enter the command mail. A list of all messages in your mailbox will be displayed. You can then use any of the commands listed in Table-1 to work with the messages in the mailbox or compose new mail messages.

To compose a new message from a command prompt, follow these steps:

1. Type mail followed by the e-mail address of the recipient.
   For example:
   mail wally@cleaver.com
   Mail responds by prompting you for the subject.
2. Type the subject line and press Enter.
   Mail then waits for you to enter the text of the message.
3. Type the message text. Use the Enter key to start new lines.
   You can enter as many lines as you wish for the message.
4. Press Ctrl+D to finish the message.
   The following prompt will appear:
   Cc:
5. Enter one or more carbon copy addresses if you want others to receive a copy. Otherwise, press Enter.
   You're done! The message is on its way.

Using Evolution

Evolution is a graphical e-mail client that's similar in many ways to Microsoft Outlook. It includes not only e-mail features, but also a contact list, a calendar, a task manager, and other Outlook-like features.

To start Evolution, click the E-Mail icon that's located in the panel at the top of the GNOME screen. The first time you run Evolution, a configuration wizard will guide you through the necessary configuration. You need to supply basic information about your e-mail account, such as your e-mail address and the name of your mail server.