Use webmail! That means any of the above like Gmail, Yahoo, etc. Windows Vista and 7 replaced Outlook Express with Windows Live Mail.

The advantage of webmail is that if your computer has trouble and the files have to be backed up and then put back in, you won't lose your address book or messages. The address book and messages can be backed up - if your computer is working. If the hard drive dies, then you are hooped with OE or Windows Live - not to mention Thunderbird or Incredimail.

You can also use your internet provider's webmail. Suppose your provider is Comcast. You can log into its webmail from the Comcast home page. You may have to call your provider if you forgot your password etc - have your bill handy!