Choosing an Email Provider

There are many free email providers to choose from. Most major email systems provide quality services. However, not all providers are equal and there are benefits to going with proven systems that can go with you wherever you are and work with every device. Here are some things you may want to consider when choosing yours:

• Is the service tied to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or cable TV provider? If you move or change from cable to satellite, will you have to change your email and lose access to your prior messages?
• Is the service free? With all the free services, why pay for email?
• Is the service reliable? Google and Microsoft, to name two providers, are big names and should be around for a long time to come.
• What other features or services does the service include? For instance, Gmail is a Google product, and an account with Google gives you personalized access to Maps, YouTube, Hangouts, Photos, and much more.
• Does the email provider have robust apps for Android and Apple smartphones and tablets?
• Are your emails encrypted from end-to-end for security and privacy?

Some of the most popular free email services that are not tied to a cable TV provider include:

• Gmail. Free, lots of storage, robust apps for mobile devices, and integrated into other Google products. Gmail is the most popular email service in the world and the one we use as an example in this manual.
• Microsoft. Free and works well with the Windows Mail app and Outlook.
• Apple Mail on iCloud. If you have an iPhone or other Apple device, then you already have an account.

For those who want an extra secure and anonymous email provider, try:

• ProtonMail
• Tutanota
• Mailfence
• CounterMail