New ways of communicating, page 2 of 4

What is the Internet?
The Internet is a global computer network. Desktop computers (hosts) can connect with any one of over 1.6 million servers (computers where information is stored) via a telephone line. There are over 70 million users of the Internet worldwide. Around 9 million adults currently use the Internet in the UK. British use is growing by at least 10-15% a month, the highest sustained growth rate in Europe. It is estimated that 25% of all homes in Western Europe will have a connection to the Internet by 2001. Every UK school now has an Internet connection.

Do I need to be on the Internet?
No, you don’t need to be on the Internet but neither do you need to drive a car. However, it will become increasingly difficult to operate without it. It would be beneficial to connect to the Internet before it becomes crucial so that you have time to assess it and change your working methodologies to accommodate it.

How do I connect to the Internet?
To connect to the Internet you need 3 things. First of all you need a computer, any computer which you currently use for word-processing which runs a recent version of Windows or MacOS can be used. Secondly you need a modem connected to this computer and to a telephone line. Ideally this should be reasonably fast, one of the current 56K modems would be a good choice. Thirdly you need an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP provides a "gateway" to the Internet and all of the services you need, such as email and Web site hosting.

What are the running costs?
Obviously running costs will vary depending upon how much use you make of the Internet. Setting-up costs are easy to determine. Providing you already have a computer you can add a fast modem for about £100. An annual account with an ISP offering basic services will cost about £100 per year. Thereafter, the only additional cost will be the extra use you make of your phone. Even this can be kept to a minimum if you use the Internet at off-peak times. All ISPs offer local call rate when you dial in.

What do I get for my money?
An annual account with an ISP will give you unlimited access to the World Wide Web, at least one email address; some offer more. It will also give you space to create your own Web site. Commonly ISPs offer 5Mb of space, which is plenty for a respectable Web presence. Your ISP account will also give you access to newsgroups and allow file transfer using FTP (File Transfer Protocol) as well as other more esoteric services such as Telnet.

Do I need a Web site?
No, you don’t need a Web site but it’s always a good idea to gain experience before the need becomes critical. Creating your own Web site or having one created for you will introduce you to all the concepts involved and it may even be fun.