A system and a method transmit and process messages, in terms of the automation of a production plant. The messages are sent from the automation appliances to an internet message server by a data transmission system in the form of the Internet or an Intranet. The Internet message server serves the receiver and the distributor of the messages. The actual addressee of the message is determined on the server by distribution lists, and the message is forwarded to the addressees, directly or by a processing unit which adds further information to the message. The messages are stored in baskets and can be buffered. A confirmation message can be sent from the addressees to the automation appliance.