Are you new to the Internet? Want to try out new areas such as discussion boards and online chat? Each week our "Absolute Beginners" guides give you tips and tutorials, from Internet basics such as how to use a Web browser and email to more advanced topics including how to build your own Web pages...

Email: How to read an email address

Do you find email addresses about as understandable as ancient hieroglyphics? We explain how to make sense of them...more

Get Chatting:

Internet chat is about real-time interaction with real people. All you need is Internet access through oceanfree.net and one or more of the many free chat programs you can download from the Net. We outline the different systems available....more

Using a browser: a 12-step guide

A Web browser is an important tool for using the World Wide Web. But what exactly is it? And how do you get the most out of its various buttons and menus? More