What software do I need to get on the Internet using my
Amiga?
Amiga Internet software is constantly changing, adding new
features and faster ways of accessing the net. The main software
you will need to get on the net are:
1) A TCP/IP stack- A program that allows your Amiga to "talk to
the internet". There are many fantastic utilities available, the
AmiTCP demo is well featured and can be found on most magazine CDs
and PD libraries. However, it is quite difficult to use, especially
for the internet novice. Miami is by far the easiest to use, and is
available from most PD libraries. Adverts for the full version can
also be found in the current Amiga magazines.
2) E-mail software. E-Mail is the internet equivalent of posting
a letter and having it delivered almost instantaneously. The best
E-mail program available is known as YAM. The good news is that it
is FREE and can be obtained from a PD library or magazine CDs.
3) Newsreaders. To access another area of the internet known as
Usenet you will require a newsreader. Unfortunately, I cannot think
of a perfect Amiga newsreader. One of the only commercial offerings
is "New York" from Finale Developments. This costs $35.
4) A good Amiga Internet provider. Whilst it is easy to go with
any internet service provider, you should find one that actually
knows what an Amiga is and can help you with any problems that you
may have. At the moment many Amiga users recommend Demon
Internet.
5) Web Browser- If you want to surf the net you will need a web
browser. The Amiga hosts three main browsers that are regularly
updated. These are Voyager, iBrowse, and AWeb. The first two rely
on the graphical interface MUI to run and require a 020+ fast ram
at minimum to run at a decent speed. There is also a port of
Netscape Navigator in the works. The first beta demo of this should
be available around Christmas 1998.
6) FTP Client- An FTP client allows faster downloads from a
number of FTP sites, including Aminet.
The most popular tool for the job is AmiFTP and Directory Opus
5.5.
7) IRC Client- Access real-time chat groups with your Amiga.
AmiIRC seems to be the leader in this market.
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