Back in those days, there weren't a lot of online services. Navigation was difficult at best, especially when it came to even trying to find something that you were interested in at the time. Today's Internet is much more easier to navigate, but let's face it, finding exactly what you want can be as equally challenging at times. Clifford Stoll, who has written and lectured about the Internet, would agree, that sometimes it is easier to lookup information in the library, then to try and find it online.
Usually, when it comes to hardware, bigger and more is better. Not true, with the 33.6 speed modems. Because of the phone line, not being a dedicated line, there is too much static to get a true speed connection. Even a 56 2X or Flex modem will only top out usually at 40, if your extremely lucky. Granted, my old 300 baud was slow, and when I bought a PC, I went to 2400 baud, to 14.4, to 28.8, to 56 flex and that's where I remain, as an ISDN line, or a T1 line isn't cheap, and cable and satellite isn't mainstream yet.
There are still not a lot of online services, but there are way too many Internet service providers. Even the online services offer some access to the Internet. I've been using Earthlink, recently. I wouldn't say it's the best or the worst. There are close to 3000 to choose from on the local and national levels. Some things to look for when choosing are: a local phone number for access, a flat monthly rate, free web space, e-mail, Internet relay chat, file transfer protocol, world wide web access, telnet, news groups and little things like access to finger, gopher, archie, etc. Shop around, there is a lot of competition.
I could fill volumes of pages with my thoughts on this subject, but I won't bore you that much. No matter how you access this vast cyberspace, or why your access it, enjoy your time on it, even if it is work or school related. We are fortunate to have access to it, many people are not as privileged. I believe in free speech online and a right to privacy. The efforts of the Electronic Frontier Foundation are a never ending battle.
Remember, it is you, who is building our online world through your participation! No one person owns the entire online community, we all have a stake in it! Happy Surfing! Check out my related online reviews.
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