The Internet is no longer a minority interest, accessible to only a few computer enthusiasts. It is now widely available to Macintosh, PC, and Unix users throughout the world, providing a unique, freely available, information and communication service. Yet even after this unprecedented growth, the "net" is still a mystery to many potential users. This guide provides a concise introduction to the world's largest computer network. The author shows you what is needed to get "online" using today's software for Windows, Unix, and Macintosh computers, including hardware and software requirements, and other essential tools. It explains the basics of e-mail, Telnet, FTP, and the World Wide Web. Also included are over 200 pages of online resources covering the sciences, engineering, and medicine.