Internet Clockworks 

Contents 

What Is the Internet? 
How Can I Connect to the Internet?
What Are Protocols?
What Are Domain Names?
Netscape or Internet Explorer--Which One?
Am I Plugged In?
How Do I Alter Netscape Preferences?
Cookies, Java or Tea, Anyone?
Where Can I Get Help?
 

What Is the Internet

The Internet is a global network of computers that was "created" in October 1995. Read more about the history of the Internet. 

How Can I Connect to the Internet?

ISDN, internal modems, ATM, DSL... Who's to know which is the best? Each has its different merits and costs.

As a member of the University of Maryland community, you may use UM to connect your computer to the Internet. Use the dialup instructions for Windows 95/98, Windows NT, Windows 2000 or Macintosh OS 8+ available at the Office of Information Technology Website.

Protocols are standards which dictate the "language" that computers use to communicate with one another over the Internet. IP is Internet Protocol. HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) is the basis of the World Wide Web.

Domain names are given to a computer or group of computers on the Internet, such as wam.umd.edu or www.lib.umd.edu. Read more at CNet.com. 

Netscape or Internet Explorer--Which One?

Netscape and Internet Explorer are only two of the many browsers available. A browser allows users to navigate the Web using the HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol. Read more at Internet.com. 

Plug-Ins add functionality to browsers. For example, the RealPlayer. Read more at Netscape.com. 

In Netscape 4+, click on Edit | Preferences to view or edit your personal settings. 

There's a lot more than HTML out there, and you need to be a savvy Internet user in order to keep afloat. 
 

Cookies

Cookies are harmless. They're just little bits of information about your visit to a Web page that help Web sites customize your experience by storing your password so you don't have to log in each time you visit a site. Cookies are used to "maintain session" when using the Libraries' databases. Read more at CNet.com.

Java

Java is a programming language, like Perl or C++. Web browsers, with the help of PlugIns can read these programs to increase the functionality of the Web. 

Where Can I Get Help?

• The ITD Help Desk (x5-9188) should be your first call for your work computer. 
• The OIT Help Desk (5-1500) can help you from home. 
• Visit the Staff Learning and Development Web site regularly for more classes about the Internet. 

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