Description:
There's a mad rush among small businesses to get connected to the Internet, and it's no wonder: an Internet connection means access to Web data, worldwide communications through e-mail, and the ability to put pages online to advertise goods and services. It's also a lot easier to make your little company look big and established on the Internet than it is in real life. This book is an introductory Internet text that explains the wired world in the language of small-business owners.The author begins by explaining what the Internet is about, cutting through the hype and detailing what one can reasonably expect to happen as a result of getting connected. He then goes into the options small businesses have in terms of connection. Is a dial-up connection with a modem adequate, or would a dedicated line be more cost-effective? He explores many options, detailing the capabilities and expenses of each. In addition to modems and ISDN, this book explains frame relay and ATM technology--stuff that's on the far end of possible for tiny businesses but within sight for slightly larger organizations. A large chunk of this book has to do with using the Internet. You'll find chapters on Web surfing and FTP as well as on newsgroups and chat rooms. Sadly, the chapter on e-commerce is too cursory to be of much use to anyone wanting to set up an online store, though the general advice it offers is sound. Security coverage is similarly broad. A companion CD-ROM contains an e-mail server program and some freebie demos, including Paint Shop Pro. --David Wall
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