Even from the UNIX command prompt, a 3270 connection requires using tn3270 rather than just plain telnet. Web browsers such as Netscape Navigator ask for a separate tn3270 application, in addition to any telnet client being used. A number of major library catalogs used to be available only via a 3270 emulator, but the popularity of this terminal type seems to be rapidly decreasing. Before configuring a Web browser to make telnet connections, a functional telnet program must be on the same computer. Many freeware and shareware programs are available on the Net.
Commercial versions come with Internet software suites and as standalone programs.
Some telnet programs may even come bundled with an operating system. Since most claims for any telnet client need to be tried on your own machines, freeware and shareware programs are a great place to start searching for the elusive, perfect telnet client. For Microsoft Windows users, there is Microsoft's own simple program that comes with Windows 95, but dozens of others are also available. Standard Winsock shareware sites typically include a whole directory of terminal applications. Stroud's Consummate Winsock Apps List rates and reviews several freeware and shareware terminal applications.