Getting connected to the Internet

What do you need to get yourself connected to the Internet? A basic Internet kit consists of four things: a computer, a modem, Internet software, and an Internet Service Provider, as Rose Vines explains.

• A computer. It doesn't need to be the very latest computer -- any machine capable of running Windows 3.1 will do (or a reasonably modern Macintosh, if you're that way inclined).
  
  If you're keen to run the latest Internet software and have a more efficient and enjoyable time online, you'll benefit from having a faster computer -- a minimum 486DX/66MHz with 16Mb RAM -- running Windows 95. As well as giving you access to the latest online resources, a Windows 95 system makes the whole process of connecting to the Internet far easier than earlier operating systems.
  
• A modem. We recommend a 28.8 kilobits per second (Kbps) or 33.6Kbps modem. You can certainly look at one of the new 56Kbps modems -- but make sure it is easily and cheaply upgraded to the official 56K standard whenever that is ratified. Meanwhile, make sure your ISP uses the same technology -- either K56flex or X2, currently the two competing technologies -- to ensure you get better than 33.6Kbps download performance.
  
  See our Modem Buying Guide for other things to look for in a modem.
  
• Internet software. There are two essential Internet software components: software which lets your computer dial up and connect to the Internet, and a Web browser which lets you surf the World Wide Web.
  
  Any computer running Windows 95 (as well as newer Macintoshes) is 'Internet ready', with the software you need to dial up and connect to the Internet included. All you need to add is a Web browser, although many new machines also come with a Web browser 'bundled' in.
  
  What if you are using Windows 3.1? Then you'll need Winsock software that does the job of dialling up and plugging you into the Internet. Your Internet service provider (see below) will usually provide you with a package of software that includes all this. If not, you'll find we've included all the necessary software, including your choice of Web browser, on the PC User Offline CD-ROM.
  
  But once you've established your Net connection, you're virtually free to choose your own Web browser and other Internet applications. See our Internet software software selection for more information.
  
• An Internet service provider. You have the hardware and the software, but who are you going to call? To get onto the Internet, you need to have an Internet service provider (ISP). This is a company which basically acts as an intermediary between you and the Internet. You instruct your Internet software to dial your ISP, and the ISP then connects you to the Internet. This all happens automatically once you've installed your software.
  
  Most ISPs provide you with all the software you need to get connected, including a Web browser and, if you're running Windows 3.1, the Winsock applications needed to dial up and connect. If you're new to using the Internet, you'll probably find it easiest to use the complete package supplied by your ISP. As you become more familiar with Internet software, you can always choose an alternative browser or other software if you find something you prefer.
  
  How do you choose your ISP? Check out our detailed listing of Australian ISPs for more information. Or you can get connected the easy way with the ISP kits provided on the PC user Offline CD.

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All text © 1997 Australian Consolidated Press - PC User Magazine