Starting At The Beginning

Electronic networking enables computers to communicate with each other. To network, you will need a computer, a modem, (a device that enables computers to communicate with each other), a telecommunications software package, and a subscription to a network that allows access to other online services or the Internet -- a global computer network of computer networks. Users connected to the Internet at local sites are able to talk to colleagues connected to the Internet worldwide. Some important mechanisms that ease navigation on the Internet are: the Gopher, an organizing tool for tunneling to different sites on the Internet; Telnet, a connection to a host at a distant location; and the World Wide Web, a graphic user interface for organizing and presenting text, video, and sound electronically. To obtain a listing of Internet access points to ERIC, send an e-mail to ericdb@aspensys.com.

Computer networking can have both rewarding and trying moments. Although user manuals or classes are helpful in mastering the basics, it is usually best to have someone show you how networking is done and answer your questions. Contact your building or district technology staff, regional or state technology centers, or the public library. Local computer stores may provide some assistance or the name of a local computer user group.