A configuration where a small, single-board computer is utilized to manage and route electronic mail. This setup enables users to host their own email services, offering greater control and customization compared to relying solely on commercial providers. An example involves configuring the hardware with appropriate mail server software, such as Postfix, Dovecot, and SpamAssassin, to handle sending, receiving, and filtering messages.
Hosting one’s own email infrastructure offers considerable advantages, including enhanced privacy and data sovereignty. Individuals and organizations maintain complete control over their email data, mitigating concerns about third-party data access or policy changes. Historically, this approach allowed users to circumvent the limitations of early internet service providers and maintain consistent email addresses despite provider changes. Furthermore, it provides an avenue for learning and experimentation with network administration and security practices.
