Tools You Will Need
A Decent Computer (Networked Preferred)
Internet activities such as this require reasonably powerful machines. A Macintosh LC (or Performa) or greater, or an IBM PC compatible with an Intel 386 (or greater) central processing unit (CPU), with at least 8 megabytes of random access memory (RAM) will work nicely. The bigger and faster the machine, the fewer problems you will have. One can use older machines, but the rule of thumb is
"the less you know, the more you need."
Surprisingly, a networked machine is not necessary. Since many browsers, such as Netscape and Mosaic, can access files on a hard drive (local files), you can actually produce and use Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) documents on non-networked machines. Such machines will require all necessary network software (e.g., for Windows, TRUMPET WINSOCK Windows Sockets program, as well as a World Wide Web browser such as Netscape). This capability allows the development and demonstration of Internet resources for non-Internet capable workstations. You CAN use packages such as this one to show administrators why they should more aggressively pursue Internet connectivity at your institution.
A World Wide Web Browser (Netscape Preferred)
Netscape is the current World Wide Web browsing software of choice. Since it comes in the two major flavors, Macintosh and Windows, most users will be accomodated. The latest versions of this software also recognize the latest enhancements to the HTML standard, such as forms, tables, blinking, and background colors and wallpaper. It is also free for educational use. You will need a browser, such as Netscape, Mosaic, or the Unix text-based browser, Lynx, in order to look at the HTML documents that you will produce.
A Text Editor (HTML Specific Preferred)
Any editor which can output ASCII (plain text) documents can be used to produce HTML documents. Editors which specifically address the HTML standard make life easier. In addition to a number of stand alone editors (e.g., HTML Assistant, HotDog, and HTML Editor), a growing number of existing word processing programs are made available with HTML editing and browsing capabilities. The most notable of these at this writing is Microsoft Word's Internet Assistant for Windows.