Using the Internet

Have you noticed that pocket books are making a comeback? For reasons that escape me, small square-shaped manuals have become best-sellers. This one offers a comprehensive guide to using the Internet. It is clearly aimed at beginners, and it delivers the goods - whether you put it in your pocket or not.

It starts by explaining what the Internet can be used for, how it works, and how to get on line. Then there's a section which shows how to choose the best software and hardware, and how to configure your equipment. A section on the Web describes browsers and how to use them, plus details such as bookmarks and favourites. This is all good advice, because many people never get beyond the point of typing in an address then hitting Enter.


There's also sound, money-saving advice, such as planning your online sessions in advance, so as to cut down the expensive time spent on line [which will hopefully soon be a thing of the past]. Topics such a dealing with viruses, search engines, and shopping on line are covered clearly, and there's a section dealing with all aspects of email: how to send it; how to follow the protocols of 'netiquette'; and how to deal with spam, mail bombs, and mailing lists.

There's a section on gaming, IRC chat, newsgroups, and how to locate and download software - which is invaluable advice for the beginner. For the more ambitious, there are pointers towards what you will need to create your own web pages and take part in the E-commerce revolution.

All sections are illustrated with plenty of screenshots, URL addresses are given in full, and there's a listing of interesting web sites, plus a glossary of terms used in Internet-speak.

This pocket reference has been brought out to compete with the best-selling Rough Guide - which follows a very similar format. They are both worth recommending, but of the two, I think this one has the edge - and it's cheaper.