This might be the only method available for an extremely low-end machine with very little memory. The appropriate terminal emulation software is all you will need on your personal computer for this access method. This type of connection can access all of the multimedia features of the Internet including sounds, video, and graphics. It is also much easier to transfer files to your computer with a PPP connection than it is with a terminal emulation connection. This method requires the use of PPP software as well as a separate Web browser such as Netscape Navigator.
Direct connection operates through local area networks and leased telephone data lines.
If you have a direct connection to the Internet, your school's network administrator will be able to assist you. An essential requirement for telecommunications is communications software. Terminal emulation software allows dial-up access to a remote mainframe such as FIRNmail. The terminal emulation software program must be compatible with the computer. For example, ProComm will work only with Windows computers, Windows Terminal is designed for Windows 3.1, HyperTerminal is designed for Windows 95, and Zterm is designed for Macintosh computers.