Is it hard to run an email service for say 5 or 6 people. I don't want to take on a job that I will regret later. I admit I've just heard of this, I don't even know where to start or what the cost is.
Please give me suggestions. Thanks.
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Is it hard to run an email service for say 5 or 6 people. I don't want to take on a job that I will regret later. I admit I've just heard of this, I don't even know where to start or what the cost is.
Please give me suggestions. Thanks.
Were you going to set up your own e-mail server, or use a web based service hosted by someone else? Are they going to be using your computer to send and receive e-mail, assuming that they don't have their own computers (or access to one). More details on exactly what you are planning might be helpful.
Set up my own email server, they would log on from their computer, not mine.
If you are setting up and running your own e-mail server, there are several things to consider:
1. You need a static IP address from your ISP for this server. Your router also needs to be set up to make sure that the correct ports are forwarded to the e-mail server.
2. Uptime. You need a UPS to make sure power glitches don't cause problems for users connected during a glitch. The e-mail server, router, and any associated hardware needs to be connected to the UPS.
3. Backup. You need to have a decent backup system set up so e-mail doesn't get lost.
4. Anti-spam. You need a GOOD anti-spam soltion. Most spam filters are junk. They let most spam through, but delete legitimate bulk e-mail. You don't want to have to white list every legitimate e-mail address.
5. Hardware. You need decent although not ultra-powerful hardware with lots of storage.
6. E-mail software. You need to decide what e-mail software to use. Good e-mail software might not be cheap, and it has to be able to support a GOOD anti-spam program.
7. Tech support. If something goes wrong, you need resources to help you get it fixed ASAP.
As Doc notes, Gmail is pretty good. Or, if you want/need your own domain email (and more), Google Apps http://www.google.com/enterprise/app...s/pricing.html (A free one for up to 10 users (with limited features) is available.)
We transitioned 27 email addresses to paid Google Apps over a year ago and have been very happy. Eliminated all the hassle at a good pricing point.