How to Access the World Wide Web

This page covers...

What Web Browser Software to use
The Sloan School Computing Lab
MIT's Tether Service
Other Internet Service Providers
Comprehensive List of Internet Service Providers

What Web Browser Software to use

We strongly reccomend the use of Netscape Version 2.02 or greater. You can use Netscape in the The Sloan School Computing Lab, with MIT's Tether Service or with Other Internet Service Providers

The Sloan School Computing Lab

If you are registered for 15.963, you are entitled to use the Sloan Computing Lab, even if you are not an MIT student. The lab is located in the basement of the main Sloan Building (E52), and contains approximately 50 computers for use in doing class related work. Each computer is preloaded with Netscape, as well as a variety of other common types of software, such as Microsoft's Word, PowerPoint, and Excell. If you do not already have access to the Lab, please contact Ray Faith, (253-6195) to obtain the nessary codes and passwords.

The MIT "Tether" Service

First off, if you're reading this, you're already on the web. Chances are that you'd like to access the web from home. Since you are a member of the MIT community, you can take advantage of the new MIT "Tether" service, which is essentially a "SLIP/PPP" connection to the Internet. This type of connection will allow you to run Web browsers on your home computer. The Tether service is reasonably priced, and is a very viable way for members of the MIT community to get Web access. Note, however, that you have to give up your Tether account when you graduate.

MIT Tether Service Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Other Internet Service Providers

When asking about Internet access services, it is important to find out:

Where does the company have Points of Presence (POPs)?
What are the monthly and hourly charges for connection?
Can I use any SLIP/PPP software, or do I have to use the provider's proprietary software?
(Optional) Does the company provide WWW homepage space for subscribers?

Here's a short alphabetical list of companies in the Boston area that have come to my attention. I have not heard anything majorly negative about any of these companies. The complete list of Internet Service Providers is available at The List.

Netcom Online Communication Services, Inc. -- (800) 353-6600

Netcom has been in the Internet access business for over four years. Because Netcom has POPs (Points of Presence) throughout the country, you can access your Netcom account from anywhere. I have been using Netcom as my access provider since 1992, and I have been very happy with the prices and service. They change $19.95/month for 40 hours peak (M-F, 9AM to midnight) and unlimited off-peak usage. There is a $25 activation fee.

Portal Information Network -- (415) 973-9111

Portal has been around as a significant competitor in this market for some time. Their standard account plan is $19.95/month with what appears to be no connect fees if you use Portal POPs. I was unable to find information about the extent and reach of their POPs. Portal has a $19.95 activation fee.

PSINet -- (800) 827-7482

PSINet's sevice is called "InterRamp", and was recently awarded an"Editor's Choice" award by PC Magazine. As an interesting note, PSINet has just announced 2B ISDN access (that's 128Kpbs!) for $29/month.

The Internet Access Company (TIAC) -- (617) 276-7200

This company offers Internet service throughout the New England region. It was voted "Best of Boston" by Boston Magazine. TIAC charges $29/month for 100hrs, and has a $20 activation fee.