Are you still using an email account that is tied to your internet provider (e.g. att.net, comcast.net, aol.com)? It’s time to get your own domain name and free email hosting.
You shouldn’t be using an email address that is tied to your provider. If you ever decide to change providers, you may not be able to keep your email address.
My recommendation is to get your own domain name (e.g. from GoDaddy) and then sign up for free domain email hosting from Gmail.
Gmail is available to individuals, businesses, educational institutions, community organizations — anyone, in fact. Those who choose to pay $50 per user account per year for Google Apps Premier Edition also have access to a further layer of spam filtering, increased storage, and some other features. I have been satisfied with the free service.
Use your own domain
A free Gmail account allows you to use your own domain name. There are details and an introductory video.
Personal experience
I have set up several people with domains and tied it to Gmail. I also use it for a few of my own domains.
Everyone should have their own domain name and tie it to their email address. A domain name is only $10/year. Email hosting via Gmail is free!
Great tip Ron. Thanks.