The phrase encompasses the technologies and services required for an organization to manage and operate its electronic messaging infrastructure. This includes elements such as email servers, security protocols, archiving systems, and the network connectivity that allows email messages to be sent, received, and stored. For instance, a business using a cloud-based email service integrated with advanced threat protection and data loss prevention features would be considered an implementation of this phrase.
Efficient electronic communication is critical for modern organizations. The appropriate setup, maintenance, and security of such a system contribute directly to productivity, collaboration, and data protection. Historically, organizations managed these systems internally, requiring significant resources and expertise. The emergence of cloud-based solutions has allowed businesses to offload much of this management to third-party providers, reducing capital expenditure and increasing scalability. The benefits include enhanced security, improved reliability, and the ability to focus on core business functions.