In the realm of digital communication, there are two primary methods for sending out bulk emails. Before delving into these methods, it's crucial to understand the two types of bulk emails that exist. The first type is unsolicited bulk mail, often referred to as "spam", while the second type is solicited mail, commonly known as "opt-in" email. This article will focus on the latter, discussing the two ways to send out bulk emails and the role of list servers in this process.
Spam is the digital equivalent of junk mail, flooding the internet with multiple copies of the same message in an attempt to force the message onto people who would not otherwise choose to receive it. The majority of spam is commercial advertising, often promoting dubious products, get-rich-quick schemes, or quasi-legal services. The term "spam" is derived from the acronym UBE, which stands for "unsolicited bulk email".
Opt-in email, on the other hand, is solicited by the recipients who have chosen to receive the email. This usually takes the form of newsletters or ezines. A key feature of opt-in email is that recipients can easily remove their email address from the list if they no longer wish to receive the emails.
When it comes to sending out bulk emails, there are two main methods. The first involves maintaining the list of addresses on your own computer, while the second involves using a list server.
If you choose to maintain your own list and send out your emails using a package such as Pegasus or Eudora, you are responsible for maintaining the list, including both additions and removals. This can become a daunting task if you have a large number of subscribers. Moreover, it can tie up your computer for a significant amount of time while the emails are being sent out.
A list server, on the other hand, simplifies the process. You send your message to the list server, and it sends it to your list. This allows you to continue with your other tasks while the emails are being sent out. The list server also handles the maintenance of your list, taking care of additions and removals. This is particularly beneficial when your list grows beyond a few hundred names.
There are numerous list servers available, with varying levels of service. Some were added by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) as an afterthought, while others have dedicated servers specifically for this purpose. The latter usually provide a higher level of service, prioritizing the sending out of emails and ensuring that your message is relayed promptly.
List servers can be free or paid, with costs ranging from $60 to $7,500 per year. For those on a budget, there are several free list servers available. A quick internet search for "Free List Servers" will yield numerous results.
One popular free list server is Topica. Topica offers a user-friendly interface and prompt delivery of messages. They generate revenue through advertising, displaying a small ad at the end of each email sent and banner ads on their website.
As a precaution, it's advisable to download all the email addresses of your subscriber lists regularly. Topica allows you to download all of your addresses to your local computer, ensuring that your mailing list remains intact even if you decide to leave their service.
In conclusion, anyone who uses a mailing list should consider the benefits of using a list server. Feel free to visit Topica's website to learn more about their services.
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