Macintosh Ideas - Internet Service Providers


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"How Do I Get Connected At Home???"

This is the start of some coverage in depth for serious computer users. For internet access at home, one needs to have an internet connection (an Internet Service Provider - ISP - someone to connect you to the internet). Here are some suggestions.
NOTE: Internet things change so fast that some of the material on this page may become dated before I can enter new information. It still is a good place to start for some "learning" on "how to get connected".
A work place usually does not use modems to connect to the Internet but at home this is the practice. A fast "direct connection" to the internet is provided by the most school districts and most work places. Many times there is no "dial-in" access provided from home so unless one has a modem and an Internet Service Provider at home, email and the internet can only be accessed while physically at the school/work place.
With a computer, a modem, and an ISP at home, one's home can become an extension of the school/work place. (Write a test or handout and send it to school for printing the next day.) I find it is much nicer to deal with some things at my own time in a relaxed location, with a cup of coffee, while being around my family, rather than having to "go to school/work" to do some computer project!
Technology is moving fast with the new xDSL connection and Cable Modems being offered (by USWest and Media One in the MPLS/STP area). This technology is FAST. There are some links to explore (no written pages here yet) on the Handy Items page.
One major consideration is whether one does much "traveling" and needs to connect to the internet from different cities (national connection for business) or whether a local ISP is the answer for one's needs>
Recommended: "Get Connected At Home!"
The number of home internet connections for home email addresses is increasing fast. Don't be left behind and wondering what is going on! The experienced internet user has so many new tools at his/her command.

Internet Service Providers (ISP)

This list of internet service providers is not intended to be exhaustive / definitive. It is intended as as helpful starter list for someone looking for a reliable, and not too expensive, Internet Service Provider (ISP). There are some national providers, some providers that require special software, and some very nice local ISP's on this list for the Minneapolis / St. Paul area. Some providers also include space for placing a web page on their server! Choice of an ISP is personal. Some connections are limited internet connections and some provide only email. Making choices here is similar to choosing a telephone "Long Distance" provider. Everyone has his/her reasons for making a choice. There are no "clear superior" choices. Your ISP must be one that "works for you"!

Look closely and ask yourself some questions!
Do you want full internet access from home?
Do you want a "true" internet connection or one that provides access to the "providers" windows and pages!
Do you really need an "unlimited hours" connection or will something less than that suite your internet needs.
Do you have an internet connection at work and only need a personal email address for personal messages?
After all of that, the question that still exists is, "How do I set this all up?"

Page Locater

Generic Search Tool

All-In-One Systems

Semi All-In-One Systems

Local ISP's

Education Providers

Library Connections

The Free-Net Connection

Interesting Freebies

(Don't "scoff" at these - they may be "just what you need" but don't confuse them with a "full internet" connection!)

Send A Greeting Card

DSL - high speed access

Setup helps!
Web Page Construction

Search

Generic Search for ISP's

Search here for quite a comprehensive listing of service providers with lists by State, Country, etc.
Internet Service Providers from the Library of Congress. This includes some "Freenet" providers!

"All in one system"

America Online dominates this area with a claim of well over 50% of internet users subscribed to AOL. The others have, more-or-less, given up the battle and AOL, like Microsoft in software, dominates! The connection and service, although relatively expensive for the moderate user, is nice and is an excellent place to start. The web browers in AOL are OK but not as good as using the best, "Netscape", with a true internet connection. With America Online (and each of these services) one must use the provided software and generally cannot connect to other internet services though them. The beginner does not need these but a common flaw appears when one wishes to access email at a work email address using AOL software. This cannot be accomplished yet!

Advantages

Generally easy to get connected but must use special software (provided)
Access from anywhere in the USA (tollfree or through an 800 surcharge number)
Provide a site home with many nice services reducing the need to browse or surf the Web to find things.
PERSONAL COMMENT: America Online is excellent for someone starting out on the Internet. I started with AOL, and tried many of the other "all in one" services, and found AOL to be the best for me. I will probably always keep my AOL account and I use it for many things.

Disadvantages

Sometimes very hard to sign on!!
Cannot generally use Netscape, Telnet or other Internet Clients
Must use provided software to read / send email
PERSONAL COMMENT: These accounts provide very nice services on their site but are very weak in providing "true" internet access. Use of their "generic" browsers for the internet is really a distraction. When one experiences a "true" internet connection, one is not likely to return to these browsers. Email access has to be accomplished using the provided unique software. To browse real internet sites, use a local ISP (below).

"Semi-all in one system"

ATT was an early player among the voice telephone service providers that also provide internet access for computer users. Each of these services vary with the amount of service they provide (some require special software like the AOL connection, some do not provide Macintosh support, etc.) but they obviously have the potential for many advantages since they have some much expertise in voice communications. This may be the future! I like the advantage here of being able to access "internet connection", using 800 numbers or local providers while "traveling". One generally pays a sur-charge for these services but if access while traveling throughout the country is important, one should research these services. Sprint and MCI, other "big players" in the voice communications market also provide internet services. Each has their advantages. For the typical home user, these can be more expensive and may not provide the consistent access connection provided by the local internet service provider.

See also:

Sprint Internet Passport

MCI

ATT and Sprint provide an internet connection but, as far as I can see, MCI only provides some interesting services.

Advantages

Moderately easy to get connected, generally, using special software (provided)
Generally accessible from anywhere in the USA without toll charges. (Some locations have a surcharge).
Browse the WWW with Netscape Browser
Biggest advantage is that ATT has been offering a special: one year, 5 hours per month, account for ATT long distance subscribers. Sprint is offering some "free" services and connection time also.
PERSONAL COMMENT: This account is nice for a traveler since one can access the account with local calls in many localities. The first 5 hours are free for ATT long distance subscribers so how can one go wrong? The true internet connect (below) works better but the advantage here is for the traveler.

Disadvantages

Use Netscape Mail instead of Eudora (Macintosh)
Some restrictions on freedom
Must access connection through the ATT/Netscape Special Software
Lacks a "true" internet connection in use of other clients.
PERSONAL COMMENT: This is a nice account for a beginner but lacks the flexibility of the "true" internet connection.

"Local" Internet Provider

These are the best and provide a "true" internet connection for the user interested in such. There are many local providers (and some national providers). There are more providers being added all the time so this list is certainly not exhaustive for the Minneapolis/St. Paul community. Once again, a person should make a choice based upon the need for a "traveling" connection. Most of these ISP's provide consistent and reliable connections within the local area codes (no busy signals)! One must know a bit more to use these but many provide excellent help in getting started (pclink or wavefront are my favorites in this area with consistent connections and wonderful support services at a moderate cost).

One test of what I call a "true" internet connect:

"Can you access your office mail account from home using your home ISP?"

NOTE: An excellent, but "bare bones", client for doing this is POPmail/Lab from the University of Minnesota.

Direct download POPmail/Lab for Macintosh

Direct download POPmail/Lab for Windows

One of the best freeware (and commercialware) email clients is Eudora, available from Qualcomm. Download the lastest freeware or commercial client.

Direct download Eudora Light 3.1.3 for Macintosh

A second test of what I call a "true" internet connect:

"Can you use a browser like "Netscape" or "Internet Explorer" to access web sites?"

NOTE: The "Browser war" continues with both of these browsers competing for your attention. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Netscape was the first and is generally considered to be the leader (developed first by students at the University of Illinois - Mosaic - and then "commercially" developed). Internet Explorer is the product of the "giant" that threatens to control the world, Microsoft. Both are good. My personal preference is Netscape (which you will find referenced on all my web pages). I do check every web page with Internet Explorer and I am finding that it can do many good things. Both are "free" so the choice is yours!!!

Note: Some continuing updates to this list can be found on the Handy Items page.
Wavefront Communications
This was my favorite and IMHO offered the best of a number of options including cost, number of hours, space for a web page, ease of connection, consistency, etc. Wavefront has been merged with Visi.com and former wavefront subscribers continue with the same package of services but new subscribers will have to look at the packaged visi.com services.
PCLink Internet Services
This is my basic email home and IMHO offers the best directions (right on the web) for getting set up for the first time. Space also provided for free web pages. The connection "always" works!!!!!!! Now provides free support for K56-Flex modems!
ETA (formerly Metro2)
A site for educators. This is a low-cost site for St. Paul Public School Educators to sign up for a personal connection to the internet from home.
Data Realm
Data Realm provides a low-cost location for web pages (as well as all the other support for a "connection"). For $5 per month a teacher can have 5 Megs of web space to place "internet/electronic" assignments and information for students. These sites are completely within the control of the individual. A web site can be a wonderful tool for a teacher that is adding "electronic media" to the "skills" and technics of his/her teaching.
Twin Cities Freenet
I have an account here and highly recommend looking at this site for a "lifetime" email connection. The "freenet" concept provides a means for an internet connection for "everyone" with only a small contribution to initiate the connection. It is staffed totally by "volunteers" and provides space for a free home page on their web server.
The River
Non-profit organizations can connected to their leadership at a very low cost.
Spacestar
This ISP provides service for those Metro people that live "over the border" in Wisconsin with a local telephone call. There is a slight "setup" fee, but support is provided for Macintosh and PC users.
WinterNet
This is one of the Major Players in internet services in the Twin Cities.
Innovative Software
Excellent value for the price but I have had trouble connecting at times.
Vector Internet Services
Minnesota Online
Many Major Twin Cities organizations have their sites here.
Minnesota Regional Network
This is the Major service provider for other connection servers.
- List of Minnesota Providers from MRNet WOW!!
- List of Minnesota Internet Providers from Winternet (Under construction and link does not work now!)
- List of Minnesota Providers from MetroNet WOW!! again, again

Advantages

"True" internet connections - i.e. Any Client may be used (Netscape, Internet Explorer, Eudora, etc.)
Best links to the Web
Best choice if one does not intend to use this service from other calling areas.
Few busy signals!!
Many of these providers also make space available on their servers for a web page placed by you. (Your personal web Home Page.)
PERSONAL COMMENT: Once you have experienced a "true" internet connection from one of these ISPs, you will not likely return to AOL (or a similar provider)

Disadvantages

It takes a little configuring to get started depending on the internet service provider chosen
NOTE: Once configured there is very little problem with using the service!
Services are only available tollfree with a local call in 612 area code (generally)
There would be a long distance charge outside of the 612 area code
PERSONAL COMMENT: Some people let the connection process and learning curve at using various pieces of software discourage them from using this type of connection. SORRY, you are missing out!!!

Educational institutions

For students, faculty or grads. These are usually the best deal financially if one can qualify for usage. Check with your college. Some (like the University of Minnesota) provide internet access for life through an alum association. Some (like Hamline) provide internet access for life, through a dial-up connection, but requires consistent use or the account is cancelled. To try find out what you college offers, type in a URL like this: http://www.collegename.edu/

Library Resources

In the future, maybe our local libraries will provide access to the internet and email accounts (through a service such as the Freenet system) so that email communications will not be determined by economic status, employment or education. GOAL: "Everyone should have an email address as well as a post office address."

Library Resources
Here you can find the search tools and home page links to most public libraries in the Twin Cities, Minnesota Public and College Libraries, and many National Libraries. A wonderful place to start. Check what kind of Internet access is available at your local library. Many of the library search functions can be accessed from your "home" computer.
Minnepolis Public Library Home Page
St. Paul Public Library Home Page

Cyberspace Training Center
Metronet
Linking Twin Cities Libraries and Media Centers

Twin Cities Freenet System

I believe in this system. The freenet system is dedicated to providing low cost internet access to everyone. Check this out - it has a one time fee and no frills and is run by volunteers!

Twin Cities Freenet
A graphics browser is not available but a text base browser (LINKS) provides access to the internet and a free email account (PINE). Wonderful deal and wonderful principles of operation. The Freenet System is available in many cities.
List of Freenets in other cities

Free Email Accounts

Most of these are specialized accounts for internet users that have internet access (at work or school) and need a (another) email address. These are just email accounts and do not provide internet access. Juno is unique in that one can use email without another internet connection by using special software but it is not available for Macintosh users. This list grows everyday!

I recommend that every email user also have one of these accounts for use when traveling to other cities. If you can gain internet access in another city (at a library or on a friend's computer) you can send and receive email without long distance charges using these!!!

Freei.Net is new and has free internet accesses, email, and web space for all users (yes, finally one that includes Macintosh). If you want to change or add to your internet services, check this one out.
Juno Free Internet Email Accounts
Actually Free but for Windows Users Only! I keep waiting for the promised Mac version but it hasn't happened. "Vaporware" I guess! For those of us "lucky" enough to own Macintosh computers, I guess we still have to pay our own way.... (I never will declare that "cheaper is better"). (Note: June 99 - It looks like Juno is expanding its service to become more like America Online with internet access as a part of the package. I wonder how long the "free" email will continue under the more commercial ventures?)

(Wintel people) If you are in area code 212, try this one:
http://www.freeppp.com/
Free Net Address
I have one of these and it really works consistently!!!!
iName Personalized Email
Free Web Mail
Hotmail
This one has become quite popular and is used by some people to conceal their identity! It is sad, but I have become suspect of any mail received with this address! Misuse of a wonderful free service has somewhat corrupted it!
Mail Excite
Yahoo Mail
USWest email
XOOM Mail
Highly recommended for free web space also. It works consistently and the 11 free megs is not equalled anywhere!!!

- - - - - -
Other Interesting Mail Items ... Electronic Greeting Cards!!!!
iCard at Apple Computer
Free email and postcards
Free Electronic Postcards
Love This Site
Pass It Around
Fun O Fun
Send a Greeting Card - Blue Mountain
123Greetings - Send a card!
eCards by Mac Launch
World Free Fax Site
The Net Forwarding Company

Home Use of the Internet

(This is a copy of the information on the "Beginning Macintosh" page with a few updates! Any updated information will be at the Making and Placing a Web Page web page and the Basic HTML Principles web page - "Beginning Macintosh" will not be updated!)

At Home

A work internet account is different than the special "All-In-One" systems like America Online (or CompuServe, ATT, Prodigy, GEnie, NetCruiser, Portal, etc.) since at work, one usually has a "full-time" "true" internet connection. It is recommended to have a "true" internet connection but not a "full-time" internet connection at home.

Connection Type
NOTE: A "full-time" connection is accomplished through special cabling like a T1 line and is generally too expensive and not needed for a home connection. With a "full-time" connection, there is no modem or dialing - the connection to the internet is always there (except when the server is "down").

Modem
At home, a modem is used with the regular "analog" (voice) telephone lines to make a "connection". The digital signals of the computers at each end (home computer and server) have to be modulated (translated) to be sent over the telephone line (MO - DEM is short for MOdulate - DEModulate). Since most of us use our telephone line for voice communications, we do not want the computer to use the telephone line all the time. The telephone line must be "shared". The home computer will "connect" with the "server" only when the "modem" is activated! The home computer is not online "full-time".

COMMENT: Modem speeds are changing again. When I started in this technology, modem speeds were 300 baud. Today, one should not buy a modem with transmission speeds slower than 28,800 baud or 33,600 baud. In fact, many ISP's are now offering connection speeds of 57,600 baud. "Faster (higher numbers) is better!"

Clients
In order to use this "true internet account", one must know a little more than with the special "All-In-One" systems above and must have some application programs (clients) available on their computer.

To use an internet account at Home, one must have an

ISP (Internet Service Provider) and must use
PPP and FreePPP or MacSlip along with
MacTCP or TCP/IP or TCP/IP to connect with the ISP Server.

Server
The Server is the connection to the Internet. (An electronic Post Office). Click here for some recommended ISP's for home use.

Connection
Click here for a Macintosh Connection Guide
Here is some nice PC Connection material

Email
Click here for info on configuring your Eudora email client or Claris emailer

Web Page Construction
See also: Making and Placing A Web Page

Try this site for wonderful help on constructing and placing a web page on your ISP's server - "How To Create Your Own Home Page and stop worrying about HTML!". This is a practical page that shows you "how to do it". (This is the page that got me started - just copy the codes and start working!)

There are many sites to help in learning the HTML code and to learn how to construct a web page. Builder.Com, a part of c|net, has an excellent help site. HotWired has a terrific plact to find out more when you have accomplished some of the basic of HTML and JavaScript. Check out some of the other web page builder sites on my bookmark page.

There are commercial clients that help in this - Adobe PageMill is my favorite but I also use Claris HomePage and have tried Microsoft FrontPage (available at Harding now). These clients make a wonderful starting point for web page construction but I always return to the HTML code itself and use a wonderful free tool called BBEdit when I want to do "serious work" on a page.

"Hot Wired" has a nice evaluation of some of the WYSIWYG (you know, "What You See Is What You Get") web page editors. Have a look!

At work (Harding)

Server
At Harding, the St Paul Schools provides a Server . At Harding, you will be automatically connected to the Server when you open/start any internet programs (clients).

Email
St.Paul Schools also provides an email server (flastname@mail.stpaul.k12.mn.us). There also is now a Harding email server up and running (flastname@mail.harding.stpaul.k12.mn.us) and the "new people" (Fall 97) have been assigned email addresses on the Harding server.
Make sure you keep your "server" right in your email use or your communications will go to the "deadletterofficenevertobereturnedordeliveredtotheperson--------"!!

Web Page
There are several ways that one can "have a web page" at Harding. Running a small client on individual computers, can make a web page on that computer available to the world. This client is located on all Harding computers - ask to see how to use it.
Mac OS 8 has this web sharing automatically included in the system software.
Microsoft has a free personal web server that anyone can use - it comes with the Internet Explorer installation. These personal servers work with a "full-time" connection but not with a "home connection"!

Domain Name
There is no Domain Name Server to translate the rather computer-like www address http://204.72.209.41 into a name that includes real words like http://mail.harding.stpaul.k12.mn.us. Even though it may take a little time to accesses this type of site, it works and is available now.

Review

Netscape is used to "browse" the World Wide Web (uses a "user friendly" point and click environment)
Eudora is used to send and receive email
POPmail/lab is a "barebones" email client that has many uses. POPmail can be used to access any "true" email account from any "connected" computer. You must know your full name, email account name and your password to use this.
Fetch is used to transfer files to and from your Web Site location (your Home Page), when/if you get one established
Telnet is used to connect to other computers (you must have a user name and password on these other computers for this to work - if you are unsure, try anonymous and your own email address). (Download Telnet here.
Ircle is used for chat channels (not installed)
Newswatcher is used for newsgroups (not installed)

It will take a little time to learn how to use each of these clients (programs) but they are the standards for use on the Internet. There are other clients like Gopher, Wais, TurboGopher, etc that may become familiar to you in time.
Netscape Hints
Some nice bookmarks have already been placed in your Netscape Bookmarks file.
1. Start Netscape (click on Netscape in the Launcher)
2. In the menu bar at the top of the screen click and hold on Bookmark
3. Drag to a Bookmark and release the mouse button to go to that site.
To add a bookmark of a site that you like
1. Go the the Site
2. In the menu bar at the top of the screen, drag to Add Bookmark
3. Netscape will create a bookmark for the site you are currently viewing.
There are many Search Engines that will search the Web for topics you choose.
1. Yahoo
2. Basic Start Page
3. Family Start Page
4. Web Sites from Dave (in the Bookmarks menu) has many sites and several search engines on the page. (I personally like Web Crawler and use it very much.)
Please know that a faculty person is responsible for supervising students in Internet Use.

Look at this site and refer students here!

Internet Ethics http://www-adm.pdx.edu/user/osa/osa/ets/ETHICS.HTM

There are no Student email addresses at this time but "I have a dream..." and, with the advent of a working email server at Harding, we are getting close to the reality of such a system. An administrative decision is needed.

(End of duplicated material)

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