All incoming mail gets processed through the program procmail. Messages from any mailing lists are processed in whatever way you choose. The filter then checks the header information of any other messages. If the message is not addressed to you, then the spam filter kicks it. It sends a message back to the original sender saying what has happened. In case the message was nixed in error, there is information on how to reply so the message gets through. You never see the spam message. Any bounced mail get automatically deleted.

This works extremely well for both Un*x users and Windows users (and others using POP/IMAP clients). The advantages over a program like Microsoft Outlook's Inbox Assistant is that this technique is quicker, more powerful, has more options, and is more efficient. Unlike Inbox Assistant, the e-mail is deleted before you download it.

For more information, see the information provided alongside each configuration file.

Page URL: Author: Bob Bell Last modified: