BlackBerry is a wireless handheld device introduced in 1999 which supports push e-mail, text messaging, internet faxing, web browsing and other wireless information services. RIM currently offers BlackBerry e-mail service to non-BlackBerry devices, such as the Palm Treo, through the BlackBerry Connect software. The original BlackBerry device had a monochrome display, but all current models have color displays.

BlackBerry handheld integration into an organization's e-mail system is provided through a software package called "BlackBerry Enterprise Server" (BES). Versions of BES are available for Microsoft Exchange, Lotus Domino and Novell GroupWise.

Individual users can often use e-mail services provided by the wireless provider and therefore may not be required to install a BES server on their local network, but organizations that have multiple wireless users usually run BES on their own network. While it can be very expensive having an own BES, third party companies provide hosted BES solutions. These are solutions with the advantages of an own BES, but without the costs. Every BlackBerry has a unique id called BlackBerry PIN which is used to identify your device to the BES.

BES can act as a sort of e-mail relay for corporate accounts so that users always have access to their e-mail. The software monitors the user's local "inbox", and when a new message comes in, it picks up the message and passes it to RIM's Network Operations Center (NOC). The messages are then relayed to the user's wireless provider, which in turn delivers them to the user's BlackBerry device. This is called Push procedure, where the mobile user doesn't have to synchronize the data by hand. All new e-mails, contacts and calendar entries are pushed to the BlackBerry device automatically. Device storage also enables the mobile user to access all data offline in areas without wireless service. As soon as the user connects again, the BES sends the latest data. This way the handheld is always up-to-date.

BES also provides handhelds with TCP/IP connectivity that is proxied through a component called "Mobile Data Service" (MDS). This allows for custom application development using data streams on BlackBerry devices based on the Sun Microsystems Java ME platform.

In addition, BES provides security, in the form of Triple DES or, more recently, AES encryption of all data (both e-mail and MDS traffic) that travels between the BlackBerry handheld and a BlackBerry Enterprise Server.

Universal and push-based connectivity of the BES/MDS infrastructure are among the most valuable aspects of Research In Motion's product. An organization can have devices on different carriers, and connected through different cellular network protocols, all functioning in an integrated fashion.

With more recent versions of the BlackBerry platform, the MDS is no longer a requirement for wireless data access. Beginning with OS 3.8 or 4.0, BlackBerry handhelds can access the Internet (i.e. TCP/IP access) without an MDS - previously only e-mail and WAP access was possible without a BES/MDS. The BES/MDS is still required for secure e-mail, data access, and applications that require WAP from carriers that do not allow WAP access.

BlackBerry Enterprise Server

BlackBerry® Enterprise Server software integrates with your existing enterprise systems, securely extending wireless communications and corporate data to your mobile users.

Use the BlackBerry® Enterprise Solution as a complete wireless platform to extend the benefits of your messaging and collaboration environment and other tools to your mobile professionals. The BlackBerry Enterprise Solution provides push-based access to email; calendar, contacts, tasks and notes; instant messaging; web-based applications and services and enterprise applications.

BlackBerry Internet Service

BlackBerry Internet Service gives individuals and small businesses quick, easy wireless access to communications and information — with no server software or IT support required. BlackBerry Internet Service allows you to integrate your BlackBerry smartphone with up to 10 of your existing business or personal email accounts, as well as view attachments, receive and send instant messages and browse web content while on the go.

It’s never been easier to get email, attachment viewing, web browsing and instant messaging on the go!

BlackBerry Internet Service is the out-of-the-box service that comes with every BlackBerry® smartphone that is activated with a data plan*. You can be up and running in just a few steps, regardless of email account type — and without IT support. It’s the easiest, most affordable way for individuals or small businesses to start using BlackBerry smartphones.

BlackBerry push technology lets you receive your email effortlessly because messages are automatically pushed to your device.

With BlackBerry you can*: Access up to 10 work and personal email accounts, plus an optional, new BlackBerry email address that comes with your BlackBerry smartphone Browse websites and instant message on your BlackBerry smartphone just as you would on your desktop browser stay organized with access to your latest calendar, address book, task and memo pad information and easily import the contacts from your existing desktop organizer software to your BlackBerry smartphone — you don’t have to re-enter information!