Mail servers are specialized servers which are used to transport and receive email. That in itself sounds simple enough, however them mail server is one of the most specialized servers that brings exacting requirements.

Mail servers send mail across the internet to other mail servers. This also sounds simple enough, but brings with it certain requirements. First, mail servers require security to ensure that users who send mail, or try to forward mail through it both are authenticated and are allowed to use the resource.

Mail servers also receive email for verified users. Receiving mail brings the specialized requirement of checking the mail received for viruses and filtering that mail for spam. Sometimes larger organizations use separate servers for each of these tasks. For mid sized companies a modern server can handle the mail delivery and the tasks of filtering that mail.

Other tasks that are carried out on mail sometimes includes the filtering of dangerous attachments. Certain attachments such as zipped attachments may be filtered. Other times, zipped files are scanned and allowed to pass if clean and only attachments containing programming code are filtered.

Additionally, sometimes mails are forwarded to multiple mailboxes. For example the sales team may each get a copy of Internet generated sales leads as a group. Or, that mail may e forwarded to a manager to be assigned.  There are certain rules for the handling and forwarding of emails and it is important to understand them as a mail administrator. To consult with us about your company email server or mail security contact us at 813-748-3055.