Importance

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Abstract

A method and system for exchanging electronic messages, such as email messages, include isolating personal computers and other client devices from the process of converting a message attachment from one file format to a second file format. File-format conversions are out-tasked to enhance file accessibility, free computer resources, and conserve a user's time. The access requirements of each attachment to electronic messages are compared to the capabilities of a target client device. If it is determined that a file-format conversion is required, the conversion operation is assigned to a server that supports the process of reformatting the attachments. In an email environment, the server is substantially equivalent to the conventional email server, but includes enhanced conversion capabilities. In one embodiment, the determination of whether an attachment is accessible without conversion occurs at the server level. In another embodiment, the determination is implemented at the client device level. Preferably, if a local email server is incapable of reformatting the attachment, a request is transmitted to a remote server to perform the conversion. Typically, the remote server is the email server that supports message exchanges for the person who originated the message.

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First Claim