Any kind of file can be sent through e-mail - regular text, images, sound, video, and computer programs. A file that is sent along with an e-mail message is called an attachment.

When sending and receiving attachments, it is always a good idea to check beforehand that you and your correspondent are using the same e-mail program and the same program used to create the file you're attaching to your e-mail. If you are using different programs, the person receiving the attachment may not be able to read it.

Viruses can also be sent as, or hiddin within, attachments. However, you cannot get a virus simply by reading a regular e-mail message. Please read our pages on viruses for more information.

• Outlook Express
  
• Netscape Communicator
  
• Netscape Navigator 3
  

• Outlook Express
  
• Netscape Communicator
  
• Netscape Navigator 3
  

• Find out more about e-mail
  
• What is the maximum size of attachments I can send through Sympatico e-mail?
  
• Copying and pasting text into an e-mail message