Going to the Net for $100

The hype by the ad-supported media is you have to have the latest hardware, the newest OS and application software, and the fastest connection; to go to the Internet.

If you have the money, this is OK.

But for those with more limited funds who want to go to the Net in their own homes, $100 is more than enough.

For the hardware, buy a working surplus PC, at least Pentium 4 and 256 MB RAM. This will set you back about $80.

For the software, you can load this with Puppy Linux initially, or if you want to go all the way, Ubuntu Linux or its derivatives. In the Philippines, you can use Bayanihan Linux. If you are the windows type, you can scrounge around for a Windows 2000 installer then download tons of freeware applications from the Internet. I'm sure Microsoft won't go around looking for persons still using one of their 10 year old OS.

For the connection, you can get a Bayantel line for $10 that will give you a phone and the capability to do dial up. And for the remaining $10, buy Bonanza ISPx Reloaded P90 prepaid cards that will give you 16 hours of Net connection time.

My experience with the Bayantel-Bonanza dialup combination has been good. To make it better, use Opera browser and its multi-tab loading; Star Downloader for downloading; Miranda IM for instant messaging; POPCorn or iScribe for email; WinHTTrack for website downloading; Bubbles site-specific browser for your GMail.

To protect yourself from Net intruders, use Avira AntiVir, Spyware Terminator, Comodo Firewall, BO Clean, Spybot Search and Destroy, CCleaner. These are all freeware from the Good Guys of the Net but if and when you have the money, please buy also licensed software from them.

Of course, one must have the many wonderful tools provided by Google.