There are so many things you can do and participate in once
connected to the internet. They include using a range of services to
communicate and share information and things quickly and inexpensively with
tens of millions of people, both young and old and from diverse cultures around
the world. For example:
• You'll be
able to keep in touch and send things to colleagues and friends using
electronic mail, internet telephone, keyboard chat and video conferencing.
• You can
also tap into thousands of databases, libraries and newsgroups around the world
to gather information on any topics of interest for work or recreation. The
information can be in the form of text, pictures or even video material.
• This
means you can stay up to date with news, sports, weather and any current
affairs around the world with information updated daily, hourly or instantly.
• You can
also locate and download computer software and other products that are
available in cyberspace
• You can
listen to sounds and music, and watch digital movies
There
are also a growing number of interactive multimedia games and educational
tools. And as well as using the Internet for receiving things you will be able
to publish information about your school, hobbies or interests.
There are 4 things that are necessary to "get on the
internet" with a full graphic interface (picture, sounds, animation,
etc...).
• A
computer - preferably with a fast processor (around 100 MHz or more) and lots
of memory (16 MB or more)
• A modem –
(Internal or External)
• Browser
Software (Eg. Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, Opera)
• An ISP -
An Internet Service Provider is a service that connects your home or office
computer to the Internet and Telephone Line
Once you have purchased an account with an ISP you will be
given an account name. This is often your email address as well. You will also be given a password
and should also be provided with instructions. Protect your password as you
would any personal identification number (PIN) number. The ISP will also provide information on how
to configure your software. This can be simple or difficult depending on your
Operating System. Once configured you simply run the software to connect your
computer's modem to the ISP's modem, giving you access to the Internet.