Network and communications software enables users to connect their computers to other systems. This is done either through a |modem| or |network link|. This allows information to be accessed or transferred between them. Typical functions include electronic messaging, commonly referred to as 'E-mail', transferring other data files, and using remote facilities like printers or databases. Many |bulletin board systems| are available for free, but several commercial systems exist as well. Examples of these are CompuServe, GEnie, and America Online, which have users throughout the United States and around the world.
