Getting a Browser Thats Made to Order

Getting a Browser Thats Made to Order

Some people take the easy way out. John Schmitt, a faculty member at Indiana University, for example, uses the America Online browser at home because it was a no sweat installation. �Somebody sent me a disk with free time on it, and all I had to do was stick it into my computer,� Schmitt said.

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�Somebody sent me a disk with free time on it, and all I had to do was stick it into my computer.�

That�s the way to get started, but if you�re planning to be a serious cyberhound, take a minute to ask yourself how you want to use the Web. With all the features and the various Web sites, everyone has different reason for getting connected. Some things you should consider include:

E-mail. E-mail is like the chocolate candy rewards that keep kids from misbehaving. Some browsers, however, offer limited e-mail features or none at all. With other browsers, like Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer, you can even write your messages in HTML code and receive messages with hotlinks embedded in the text.
Internet Browsing. Browsing the Web doesn�t have to be like searching the ocean for a lost diamond earring. Browsers help you sift through Web sites, customize your browser tools, search for information, and organize your favorite Web pages. With all the features floating around, it�s better to look at each before you leap into the Web ocean without a lifejacket.
Intranet. If you plan to use the browser for business, you�ll need a browser that supports Intranet capabilities. An Intranet is an internal Web for companies and institutions. Company employees view the information through a Web browser, but outside users can�t access the information. Some WWW browser companies, like Microsoft and Netscape, are delivering Intranet support to your company�s front steps.