Communications

To ensure swift and easy Internet access, make sure you have the right hardware and software to do the job. On the hardware side, you'll need a dial-up modem, a cable modem, or a digital subscriber line, or DSL modem. These devices allow your computer to tap in to the flow of data that makes up the Internet and World Wide Web.

A bulletin board is on online message center where you can read posted messages and respond by posting one of your own using a Web browser. From your most baffling computer questions to casual advice on issues such as parenting, hobbies, or job searching, online bulletin boards might be a helpful source of answers.

Connecting two or more computers is a relatively non-complicated procedure when the computers are both PCs, and Macintosh or Apple. However, the procedure becomes more complex when you attempt to connect one platform to the other.

Fax modems perform the same basic function as fax machines, but through your computer and modem rather than through a stand-alone fax machine. However, a fax modem sends electronic messages only, not paper documents, so whatever you're sending has to be stored electronically before faxing.

A Local Area Network, also known as a LAN, is a string of separate computers linked directly with a cable. One single processor or server acts as a hub, managing the flow of information between all the computers.

There are many helpful online services you can use when you wish to find useful information on a variety of topics. In fact, you may feel overwhelmed at first sight of the number of online information services you'll find when searching for a particular piece of information. To help you narrow things down, there are topic-specific services on the Web that will direct you to the area that can help to answer your questions.

Telecommuting is working from your home or a location other than that of your employer while communicating with your employer through the use of Internet, e-mail, and faxes. Many companies have workers who telecommute and many employees find sending their completed work through e-mail or fax at home a feasible and profitable alternative to commuting to an office.

With voice communications you can dial up a friend at any telephone, talk for hours, teleconference, and receive voice messages, all over the Internet. In addition to providing all the traditional benefits of telephone communications, voice communication over the Internet may save you money over heavy long-distance telephone bills.