FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION:
The computer tells me I do not have the software needed to read some of the
Forum web pages.  What do I do? 


ANSWER: 
The problem is probably not with the pages or links.  It is probably caused
because you have old software (e.g. web browser) installed that needs to be
upgraded or replaced.  

If you are using AOL, CompuServe, Prodigy, WebTV, or some other service that
provides a software package integrated with the service, then you need to look
for a solution in the online help materials or technical support provided by
your service provider.  If you are using Netscape Navigator or Microsoft
Internet Explorer, make sure you have the latest version installed.  Whatever
software you are using, check to see if there is an upgrade or newer version
available that might solve your problems.

A few additional recommendations are:

1. For computer savvy people, and others who can figure out how to install and
upgrade computer programs, I recommend they not use AOL, Prodigy, or similar
services that require customers to use their proprietary software packages.  My
opinion is that limiting the customer to use of a proprietary software package
does not give them the best and broadest range of compatibility for using the
Internet.  For this category of people, I recommend obtaining Internet access
From an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that allows the user to select from a
variety of available browsers (e.g. Netscape Navigator, MS Internet Explorer)
and email programs (e.g. Netscape Messenger, Eudora Pro).

2. For people who can't or won't handle installation and maintenance of computer
software, I recommend using a service like AOL, WebTV, Prodigy, Compuserve,
etc.  Those types of services generally include a proprietary software package
with the service.  They might not allow the customer to select and use other
software programs with their service.  But, they generally provide support for
their packaged software and make periodic upgrades easily available.  The major
advantage, in my opinion, of these types of integrated services is that they are
usually easier to install, use, and maintain.  The major disadvantage, in my
opinion, is that they usually restrict the customers ability to select and use
other, sometimes better, software options.

3. Regardless which of the above options a person chooses, I recommend seeking
out and obtaining the fastest Internet access you can afford.  The following is
a list of service options you may want to investigate and consider.

http://www.tci.net/
http://rogers.home.com/
http://shaw.home.com/
http://www.cox.com/CoxatHome/
http://www.comcastonline.com/
http://www.comcast.com/content/home.htm
http://www.bellsouth.net/member/addservices/ADSL/index.html
http://www.bellsouthonline.com/isdn/
http://www.bellsouth.com/bbs/adsl/
http://www.isps.com/
http://www.ispfinder.com/
http://boardwatch.internet.com/isp/
http://www.netguide.com/Internet/Access
http://www.scroots.org/faq4.html
http://home.netscape.com/download/index.html

Hope that helps answer some of the questions.

Steve Coker
Forum Manager

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