So...
you want to build a home on the Web. For the purposes
of this tutorial, we'll assume that you have very little
or no previous Internet experience. If things move too
slowly for you, just select the topics that you want
to learn about from the menu above.
GET A COMPuTER
The first thing you'll need is a computer.
No, really! There are ways to get a "free" computer
or to buy a computer cheap and get lifetime Internet service
as part of the deal.
However, most people find that either the computer or
the service turns out to be insufficient for their needs.
By then, their money is gone and they're stuck with
something they can't really use or even sell for enough
to get their money back.
Take our advice... Pay for a computer that
meets your needs and can be upgraded (most "free"
computers can't be). Get your Internet service separately
(see the 'ISP' section
of this article). If you're strapped for cash, look in your
local used goods publication (such as the 'Thrifty
Nickel'), in your newspaper's classifieds or on eBay.
Because we computer geeks are always looking
for the latest and greatest, older computers are CHEAP!
Another plus is that used computers usually come with software,
saving you money.
If you're unsure of what to look for while
computer shopping, or you're the handy type and want to
try building a computer yourself, see our 'Computer'
how-to section.
If you can't afford a used computer, don't
give up hope. You can still use the computers at your local
library, and set up a website that way. As a bonus,
you'll have all kinds of resources at your fingertips to
help you.
