Active X for instance only works in Internet Explorer. For some things, like embedding midi files or java scripting, you'll need two lines of code to get it to work in both Explorer and Netscape. Some designers create two versions of their sites, and have visitors choose either a Netscape link or Internet Explorer link for optimal viewing. This is more work than I'm willing to do. Instead, I preview web sites in the top two browsers to make sure it looks good in both.
Some people collect webrings and banners in the hopes of bring in more surfers.
Actually, not a bad idea, but if you have all this stuff on your front page, it's going to look cluttered. Include a link to your main page, so people won't think this is all your site has to offer. Take this workshop for instance. The main reason I divided it into five sections was to avoid having a page that went on and on and on. If you want to post that 20 page chapter, give us a break every five pages or so.