readdressing

Readdressing is the act of changing the destination address of a communication, package, or service so it reaches a different recipient or location than originally intended. It is used to maintain delivery or continued access when the original details are outdated, incorrect, or no longer valid.

In postal and courier contexts, readdressing often appears as forwarding or redirecting mail to a new address. The process typically requires some form of authorization or confirmation and is effective for a defined period. Forwarding systems use address change records to route items to the updated location, with privacy and fraud considerations prompting verification steps.

In digital communications, readdressing can involve updating contact information, setting up mail forwarding rules, or restructuring message routing within accounts and services. It may also occur when a user changes a username, handle, or linked account, requiring redirection of messages and access to associated resources.

In networking and computing, readdressing refers to updating network addresses or routing tables so data reaches a new host or path. This occurs during device mobility, network renumbering, or after changes in topology, using mechanisms such as dynamic host configuration, mobile IP, or address translation. The objective is to preserve connectivity and service availability amid changes.

Security and governance considerations accompany readdressing, including risks of misdelivery, privacy breaches, and spoofing. Organizations implement verification, access controls, and policy controls to balance convenience with protection. See also forwarding, redirection, address change, and aliasing.