You don't need a computer to log in to the Web. Prices are coming down for the set-top box that will sit on your TV and allow to use your TV screen to communicate through the World Wide Web. You'll get all the benefits of the WWW, without owning an expensive computer. The set-top boxes utilize the communicating technology of your existing television.

You'll need the "box" plus a keyboard. Some companies offer a keyboard that will hook to your TV with a wire. Others offer a wireless keyboard, it costs a little more. You'll be able to access not only the Web but interact with your clients, friends and relatives via Email. You can even watch a TV program while you're Web surfing.

If you have your images on a site like PictraNet, you'll be able to communicate with photo editors from your TV.

The companies currently producing the set-top box are Sony, Philips, Mitsubishi, RCA, and the market leader, Bill Gates' WebTV. The current going price is $300 to $400. Shop around because some prices don't include a keyboard which may cost an extra $75.

You will need to expect to pay a fee to access the Internet ranging from $15 to $20 per month. There are some services that will charge $5 to $10 per month, but they limit you to 5 hours or so.

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