In technical terms, a modem is a device that converts the language your computer speaks into an audio signal. An audio signal is necessary so the information can travel through standard telephone equipment. Next, you need an E-mail account to send messages to others users. You have several choices. Many new users choose an online service such as America Online or CompuServe.
Every online service provides E-mail accounts to their subscribers.
Most ISPs provide E-mail accounts to their subscribers. Most of the time this software is bundled with your Web browser, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. There are dozens more to choose from on the market and on the Internet. E- mail is the most popular use for the 'Net. You might even find a few companies that offer E-mail accounts and software to anyone with a modem, without actually being connected directly to the Internet.