LISTSERV

(pronounced: list-serve)

An automatic mailing list server. When e-mail is addressed to a LISTSERV mailing list, it is automatically broadcast to everyone on the list. The result is similar to a newsgroup or forum, except that the messages are transmitted as e-mail and are therefore available only to individuals on the list.

Although LISTSERV refers to a specific mailing list server, the term is sometimes incorrectly used to refer to any mailing list server. Another popular mailing list server is Majordomo, which is freeware.

Historical perspective: Developed by Eric Thomas for BITNET in 1986, LISTSERV is a commercial product marketed by L-Soft International.