> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://solmail-1.gitbook.io/solmail/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://solmail-1.gitbook.io/solmail/system-overview.md).

# System Overview

### Architecture in One Page

SolMail is structured into four composable layers, each independently upgradable yet cryptographically bound on Solana:

* Identity Layer — Unified naming and ownership. Users can send/receive using wallet addresses, Solana Name Service (.sol), .mail domains (alice.mail), or familiar email-style handles (<alice@sol.mail>). Usernames are NFTs, tradable and transferable, secured on-chain.
* Messaging Layer — Wallet-native inbox with end-to-end encryption (ElGamal), client-side encrypted attachments via decentralized storage (e.g., Irys), and immutable audit trails. Messages double as programmable objects that can carry tokens, NFTs, invoices, or contracts.
* Economic Layer — $MAIL token powers premium features, spam deterrence (burn-to-send economics), and marketplace dynamics on mail.fun (identity auctions, newsletters, creator subscriptions). Integrated Solana Pay ensures low-fee, instant settlement for invoices and commerce.
* Governance Layer — MailDAO governs protocol upgrades, treasury allocation, spam-prevention economics, and ecosystem integrations. Governance is transparent, on-chain, and community-led.

<figure><img src="/files/i936ZkEbld01teXZH83Y" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### User Model

* Universal Access: Every Solana wallet is a potential inbox — you can send a message to any wallet, even if the receiver has not yet created a mailbox.
* Optional Mailbox: Users can opt-in to claim a SolMail identity (<name@sol.mail>) or .mail domain, but this is not required to receive communication.
* Pseudonymous or Verified: SolMail supports dual modes of identity. Users may remain pseudonymous, or cryptographically bind their handle to real-world credentials. The choice is deliberate, user-controlled, and privacy-maximalist.

### 3.3 Interoperability (Interop)

* .mail Domains: Fully on-chain NFT domains (e.g., alice.mail, org.mail). Function as independent namespaces, tradable and ownable assets.
* <name@sol.mail> Handles: Familiar, email-style usernames linked to SolMail accounts. Usable with or without a .mail domain.
* mail.fun Marketplace: Hub for identity trading, creator subscriptions, newsletters, and merchant verification. Bids, auctions, and identity monetization happen here.
* Optional Linkage: Users may link alice.mail → <alice@sol.mail> for convenience and routing, but both remain sovereign identifiers.