Apple Power Macintosh 4400 - Manual (Page 75)

Connecting with the Apple Internet Connection Kit
As the name implies, the facilities of an Internet Service Provider let you use
your computer to get onto the Internet. Although some ISPs offer other
services, Internet access is their main business. Once you connect with an
ISP, you have unlimited access to the Internet because your connection with
the ISP actually turns your computer into a part of the network itself.
All the software you need to connect with an ISP is included with your
computer in the Apple Internet Connection Kit (AICK). This software
package helps you select and set up an account with one of several ISPs and
helps you set up your Internet connection software. AICK also contains
several other software utilities designed for the Internet. For more
information and instructions, see the manual and online help that come
with AICK.
Connecting with America Online
Unlike ISPs, online services provide additional services for their members
alone. An online service may offer e-mail, updated news, sports scores, and
stock price updates, special chat groups, and other services as well as a
connection to the Internet. Some, like AOL, also offer their own software for
use on the Internet. Online services work differently from ISPs in that they
filter and funnel some of the data before you receive it and do not make your
computer an actual part of the Internet. This allows such services to tailor the
Internet access they provide their members. For example, Internet sites
deemed not suitable for children can be placed off limits. You might consider
this in deciding whether to select an online service or an ISP.
Your computer includes the software needed to connect with America Online
(AOL). Because AOL is very easy to use it may be the best choice if you have
never used an online service or the Internet before. You can open the AOL
software by double-clicking its icon. Check the onscreen help that comes with
the software for assistance on establishing an account with AOL.
75 Using Your Modem to Connect to the Internet or an Online Service