Email is the most basic function of networks.
Email, or electronic mail, is also one of the most popular and heavily used functions of computer networks. The ability to compose, send and receive messages within minutes and without regard to time zones or office hours is invaluable. It is important to remember, however, that while communications over the Net usually take only seconds to reach their destination, in some cases, they can take minutes, hours or even as long as a day or two. Sometimes the size of the file being transmitted can slow it down. Email has many applications, such as exchanging information, communicating ideas, discussing issues, sharing files, and editing and reviewing manuscripts.