Changing your payment method or billing information
To change your payment method or billing information

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, point to Billing, and then click Payment Method.

2	Click the button for the item you want to change.

3	Make the necessary changes to your billing information.


Displaying your current or previous bill
To display your current or previous bill

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, point to Billing, and then click Summary of Charges.

2	To see a detailed description of your charges, click Get Details.

3	Click the billing period you want.

Note

If you have questions about your bill, call the customer service number for your area.

 Related Topics


Reporting a billing error or requesting a credit
To report a billing error or request a credit

1	In MSN Central, click Member Assistance.

2	Double-click the MSN Member Support folder.

Note

You can also report billing errors by calling the customer service number for your area.

 Related Topics


Viewing, changing, or canceling subscriptions
To view, change, or cancel subscriptions

In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, point to Billing, and then click Subscriptions.

 Related Topics


Understanding the billing statement

Your billing statement shows your current balance and all the charges to your account in order by date. Payments and credits are shown as negative values. Any taxes which may apply are automatically calculated and included in the total.

There are two basic types of charges: monthly subscription fees based on your subscription plan, which are billed in advance, and usage charges, which are billed after the usage occurs.

You will be billed once a month on your anniversary date.


Canceling your membership
To cancel your membership

Call the customer service number for your area.

 Related Topics


Requesting automatic notification of charges
To request automatic notification of charges

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, point to Billing, and then click Subscriptions.

2	Type the amount you want to set as a limit.

You will automatically be notified if any one usage charge exceeds this amount, or if a usage charge is priced in a different currency.


Activating a shortcut
To use a shortcut to go to a service

Double-click the shortcut icon.

 Related Topics


Sharing a shortcut
To share a shortcut

1	Create the shortcut.

2	Open the e-mail or bulletin board message in which you want to embed the shortcut.

3	Drag and drop the shortcut onto the message.

Tip

You can also drag an icon directly from an MSN window to a document or message.

 Related Topics


Copying or moving a shortcut
To copy or move a shortcut

1	Click the shortcut you want to copy or move.

2	If the shortcut is embedded somewhere else, such as in a bulletin board or e-mail message, click the shortcut, click the Edit menu, and then click Copy to copy it or Cut to move it.

If the shortcut is on the desktop, use the right mouse button to click the shortcut, and then click Copy or Cut.

3	Click the location where you want to place the shortcut.

4	Click the Edit menu, and then click Paste.

 Related Topics


Displaying information about a shortcut
To display information about a shortcut

1	Use the right mouse button to click a shortcut icon.

2	Click Properties.

Tip

Click the Shortcut tab to view specific shortcut properties.


Creating a shortcut
To create a shortcut

1	Find the service or folder you want to create a shortcut to.

2	Click the service or folder.

3	Click the File menu, and then click Create Shortcut.
The shortcut appears on your desktop.

Tips

You can't add a shortcut to your Favorite Places folder, or to any other MSN folder.

Another way to create a shortcut is by dragging its icon to a folder.

 Related Topics


Deleting a shortcut
To delete a shortcut

1	Using the right mouse button, click the shortcut icon.

2	Click Delete.

Note

When you delete a shortcut, you delete only the shortcut icon. The service or folder to which the shortcut was linked still exists on the disk where it is stored.


Overview: Favorite Places and shortcuts
Favorite Places and shortcuts

Favorite Places

Are a feature of MSN.

Can be used only for MSN services.

Can be put only in your Favorite Places folder.

Can't be shared with other people.

Shortcuts

Are a feature of Windows 95.

Can be used with programs and folders as well as MSN services.

Can be put anywhere on your desktop or Start menu.

Can be shared with other people.

 Related Topics


Adding an icon to your Favorite Places folder
To add an icon to your Favorite Places folder

1	Find the service or folder you want to add to your Favorite Places folder.

2	Click the service or folder, click the File menu, and then click Add to Favorite Places.

Notes

If you are already in the service or folder, click the File menu, and then click Add to Favorite Places.

You can't add a shortcut to your Favorite Places folder.

 Related Topics


Deleting an icon from you Favorite Places folder
To delete an icon from your Favorite Places folder

1	Click the icon you want to delete.

2	Click the File menu, and then click Delete.

Note

When you delete an icon from your Favorite Places folder, you delete only the icon, not the item itself. The service or folder that the icon represented still exists on MSN.


Going to one of your Favorite Places
To go to one of your Favorite Places

1	Click the Edit menu, point to Go To, and then click Favorite Places.

-Or-

In MSN Central, click Favorite Places.

2	Double-click the icon for the place you want to go.

Note

If there is no icon for the place you want to go in your Favorite Places folder, you must add it to the folder.

 Related Topics


Changing your modem settings
To change your modem settings

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, and then click Connection Settings.

- Or -

In the Sign-In screen, click Settings.

2	Click Modem Settings.

3	Select the options you want, and then click OK until you return to MSN Central.

Note

To set up a new modem, click the Start button on the taskbar, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the Modems icon. Click Add, and then follow the instructions on your screen.

 Related Topics


Changing your password
To change your password

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, and then click Password.

2	Type your current and new passwords.


Connecting to MSN
To connect to MSN

1	Double-click the MSN icon on the desktop.

2	Type your member ID and password (unless they appear automatically), and then click Connect.

Note

To keep your account secure, the password doesn’t appear when you type it.


Member ID and password guidelines

Your member ID is the name other members will see when you send e-mail or participate in a chat room or bulletin board. It becomes your online identity.

A password is a code you specify when you connect to MSN. Keep your password secret to prevent others from signing in as you and accumulating charges on your account. You can change your password at any time.

Caution

Once you've chosen a member ID and MSN has approved it, you can't change it.

 Related Topics


Disconnecting from MSN automatically
To disconnect from MSN automatically

1	In MSN Central, click the View menu, and then click Options.

2	Set the number of minutes MSN can be idle before it is automatically disconnected from your computer.


Disconnecting from MSN
To disconnect from MSN

Click the File menu, and then click Sign Out.

Tip

You can also use the connection indicator to sign out. On the Windows taskbar to the left of the time, use the right mouse button to click the connection indicator, and then click Sign Out.


Disabling call waiting
To disable call waiting

1	In MSN Central, click the Tools menu, and then click Connection Settings.

2	Click Dialing Properties.

3	Click the option to specify that this location has call waiting.

4	Type or select the number to be dialed to disable call waiting.

 Related Topics


Returning to MSN Central
To return to MSN Central

If you've closed the MSN window, double-click the Microsoft Network icon on your desktop.

- Or -

Click the Edit menu of the current window, point to Go To, and then click MSN Central.

Tip

You can also use the right mouse button to click the connection indicator, and then click View MSN Central.


Checking what's new on MSN
To check what's new on MSN

In MSN Central, click MSN Today.


Seeing MSN Today each time you start up
To see MSN Today each time you start up

1	In MSN Central, click the View menu, and then click Options.

2	Check Show MSN Today Title On Startup.


Choosing from a category of subjects
To choose from a category of subjects

1	In MSN Central, click Categories.

2	Double-click the category (subject) you're interested in.

3	Double-click any icon or folder until you see the information you want.

Tip

You can use this approach to find forums, chat rooms and bulletin boards (including those with files you can copy) in addition to other MSN services.

 Related Topics


Overview: How to find services
How to find services

MSN provides several ways to find and open services. The strategy you choose depends on whether you know exactly what service you're looking for, and how you'd like to get there.

Find command

MSN Central

Shortcuts

Favorite Places

Go words

 Related Topics


Find Command

On MSN it's easy to find information about any subject, even when you don't know where to look.

If you're connected to MSN, click the Tools menu, and then click Find. If you're not connected, click the Windows 95 Start menu, and then click Find. Double-click a service to go directly to it.

 Related Topics


MSN Central

MSN Central is the main MSN window that appears immediately after you sign in. You can go anywhere on MSN from MSN Central.

Click Categories to browse through the available forums and services.

 Related Topics


Shortcuts

You can create shortcut icons you can double-click to go directly to a folder, bulletin board, chat session, or any other service you want to return to quickly.

Shortcuts save you time because you don't have to browse through all the MSN folders or return to MSN Central to get to the folder or service you want.

Create a shortcut for an item or service on MSN if you want to return to it often from your desktop or from another Windows 95 folder.

 Related Topics


Favorite Places

Favorite Places is a folder where you can keep icons that give you direct access to the places on MSN you visit most. When you want to return quickly to one of your favorite places, you open the Favorite Places folder and double-click the icon for the place you want to go to.

Designate an item or service on MSN as a Favorite Place if you want to return to it often while you're connected to MSN.

 Related Topics


Go words

You can use Go words to quickly go to any service on MSN. You type the Go word for the service you want, and you go directly to that service. You can find a service's Go word by displaying the details (properties) about the service.

Use Go words anytime you're connected to MSN and you want to go someplace else directly from where you are.

 Related Topics


Using a Go word to go to a service
To use a Go word to go to a service

1	Click the Edit menu, point to Go To, and then click Other Location.

2	Type the Go word for the service you want to open.

Tips

You can use this approach to go to chat rooms and bulletin boards as well as other MSN services.

You can find a service's Go word by displaying the details (properties) about the service.

 Related Topics


Displaying details about an item or service
To display details about an item or service

1	Click the item whose properties you want to see.

2	Click the File menu, and then click Properties.

Tips

You can display details about forums, chat rooms, and bulletin boards (including those with files you can copy) in addition to other MSN services.

You can display information such as upcoming events, the name of the forum manager, tips for using the forum, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) by double-clicking a kiosk icon in a forum.

For Help on an item in a dialog box, click [image] in the upper-right corner, and then click the item.

 Related Topics


Finding a service by using the Find command
To find a service using the Find command

1	Click the Start menu, point to Find, and then click On The Microsoft Network.

2	Specify the criteria for the search: the words to look for, and whether to look in the name; topics, place, and people; and/or description of services.

3	You can narrow the search by selecting the type of service you're interested in, and then typing a geographic region.

4	Click Find Now.

5	Double-click a service to go directly to it.

Tips

You can also click the Tools menu in any MSN window, and then click Find.

For Help on settings, click the setting with your right mouse button, and then click What's This.

To sort the services found, click any column header.

To save your search on your desktop, click the File menu, and then click Save Search. To run the search again, double-click it on your desktop.

Use the right mouse button to click the results of your search to add them to Favorite Places or to create a shortcut to them.

 Related Topics


Find dialog copyright information
Portions of the Find dialog for The Microsoft Network include technology used under license from Fulcrum Technologies Inc. and are copyright of Fulcrum Technologies Inc. and/or its licensers.


To view a list of topics, click Help Topics.


Signing up to become a member
To sign up to become a member

Double-click the MSN icon on your desktop.

Notes

Once you've completed signup, you can begin using MSN immediately.

You have full use of MSN as soon as you sign up. However, your membership information will not be available in the address books for up to 24 hours.

 Related Topics


Guidelines for communicating online

Good manners are as important online as they are in person. The impression you make online will depend on how well you know the rules. You can read the guidelines for communicating online by clicking Member Assistance in MSN Central.

 Related Topics


Displaying your membership agreement
To display your membership agreement

1	Click the Start menu, point to Find, and then click Files or Folders.

2	In the Named box, type:

legalagr.rtf

3	Double-click the file once it has been found.


Overview: Where to learn more about MSN
Where to learn more about MSN

The following types of assistance are available in the Member Assistance folder. To open the Member Assistance folder, click Member Assistance in MSN Central.

Netiquette and member guidelines
MSN Lobby for meeting new members
Customer support
 Related Topics


Netiquette and member guidelines

Good manners are as important online as they are in person. The impression you make online will depend on how well you know the rules.

It's a good idea to learn about network etiquette (netiquette) and read the member guidelines.


Practice chat and practice bulletin board
MSN Lobby

If you're a new member, you can practice using MSN without worrying about making mistakes. The MSN Member Lounge and Members Helping Members bulletin board are great ways to connect with other new MSN members to ask questions, exchange ideas, and get to know people.

 Related Topics


Customer support

You can choose the type of customer support you prefer.

Double-click the Information Booth in the MSN Member Support folder for the latest information about the types of online support available.


Tips for using MSN

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of MSN.

Saving time with toolbars

Going back to a folder

Displaying useful menus

Viewing properties

Using shortcuts

Visiting your Favorite
Places

Saving money by working
offline

Finding information about
a forum

 Related Topics


Finding information about a forum

You can find information such as upcoming events, the name of the forum manager, tips for using the forum, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) by double-clicking a kiosk icon in the forum.


Saving time with toolbars

You can save time by using the toolbar. The toolbar is located just beneath the menus, and contains buttons you can click instead of clicking menu commands.

If the toolbar isn't visible, click the View menu, and then click Toolbar.

To see a brief description of what each toolbar button is for, move the mouse pointer over the button and wait a few seconds.


Going back to a folder

You can return to the folder you previously had open by clicking the File menu, and then clicking Up One Level.


Displaying useful menus

As you use MSN, you can click the right mouse button to see menus with commands that apply directly to your current place and task.

Try using the right mouse button to click the connection indicator. This provides an easy way to go to specific services or send e-mail.


Viewing properties

You can display the properties of the service, file, folder, or other item you currently have selected.

For example, you can display information such as the Go word and forum manager's name for a bulletin board or chat; the size of a file before you download it; or a shortcut's path.


Using shortcuts

Create a shortcut for an item or service on MSN if you want to return to it often from your desktop or from another Windows 95 folder, or send it to others by e-mail or in a bulletin board message.

 Related Topics


Visiting your Favorite Places

You can store icons for each of your favorite places on MSN in your Favorite Places folder.

When you want to return quickly to one of your favorite places, you open the Favorite Places folder and double-click the icon for the place you want to go to.

 Related Topics


Using MSN from two computers
To use MSN from two computers

1	On the second computer, double-click The Microsoft Network icon on your desktop.

2	On the Signup screen, select Click Here If You're Already a Member And Need To Set Up The Microsoft Network On This Machine.


Using MSN from more than one location
To use MSN from more than one location

1	Double-click The Microsoft Network icon on your desktop.

2	Click Settings, and then click Dialing Properties.

3	Click New.

4	Enter a name for your new location, and then click OK.

5	Enter the information for your new dialing location, and then click OK.

6	Click Access Numbers, click Change for each number, and then select a local phone number. Click OK, and then click OK again.

7	Enter your member ID and password, and then click Connect.

Notes

When you return to your previous location, click Settings on the Sign-In screen to change your dialing location back to Default Location, and to choose access numbers close to your default location.

If you call MSN from outside your country or region, you may be charged a surcharge or receive a credit for each call.


Specifying a language
To specify a language

In MSN Central, click View, and then click Options.

Tip

For Help on an item in a dialog box, click [image] in the upper-right corner, and then click the item.


How MSN works

When you dial into MSN, you're calling a network provider. Network providers have local nodes in cities and towns all over the world that allow you to make a local phone call to connect to MSN.

The network provider then connects you to the MSN Data Center over a very high-speed network. This network is much faster than connecting over phone lines, so at any time during your session on MSN, the slowest link in the chain is between your modem and the network provider's modem.

The MSN Data Center is where all of the actual information exchange takes place, whether you're chatting with someone in another city or another country, reading messages on your favorite bulletin board, or scanning the day's headlines.


Saving money by working offline

You can reduce the amount of time you need to be connected to MSN by working offline.

For example, you can compose bulletin board and e-mail messages, and then connect to MSN to post or e-mail your message. You can also copy (download) all your e-mail messages to your computer and then disconnect from MSN.

 Related Topics


Viewing MSN Help offline
To view MSN Help offline

With Help open, click the File menu, and then click Sign Out.

Tip

You can also run Help without connecting first. Click the Start menu, click Run, and then type

winhelp msn


Rerunning signup
To rerun signup

1	On the desktop, double-click My Computer, and double-click the icon for your hard drive where Windows 95 is installed.

2	Double-click the Program Files folder, and then double-click The Microsoft Network folder.

3	Double-click the Signup icon.

Note

Once you've completed signup, you can begin using MSN immediately. However, your member information will not appear in the address books for up to 24 hours.


Signing up more than one member on one computer
To sign up more than one member on one computer

1	On the desktop, double-click My Computer, and double-click the icon for your hard drive where Windows 95 is installed.

2	Double-click the Program Files folder, and then double-click The Microsoft Network folder.

3	Double-click the Signup icon.

4	Follow the directions, providing information about the new member.

Note

Each member is billed as a separate account.


Restricting access to a service
To restrict access to a service

Send e-mail to the forum manager.

 Related Topics


Becoming an independent content provider
How to become an independent content provider

Microsoft welcomes your application to become an independent content provider (ICP) on MSN.

To receive information and an application, call or fax 1-800-4MSNFAX.

Or, send a request to:

The Microsoft Network
Dept MSN19
1 Microsoft Way
Redmond WA 98052

Tip

Information is also available online in the Member Assistance folder.


Reporting inappropriate online behavior
To report inappropriate online behavior

1	In MSN Central, click Member Assistance.

2	Double-click the MSN Member Support folder.

Tip

You can also report problems by calling the customer service number for your area, or by contacting the forum manager for the forum where the problem is occurring.

 Related Topics


Contacting a forum manager
To contact a forum manager

1	Click the icon for any service.

2	Click the File menu.

3	Click Properties, and then click the Context tab.

4	Send e-mail to the person listed as the forum manager.

 Related Topics


Meeting new MSN members
To meet new MSN members

1	In MSN Central, click Member Assistance, and then double-click MSN Lobby.

2	Double-click the MSN Member Lounge.

3	Type your message in the Compose pane at the bottom of the Chat window, and then click Send or press the ENTER key.

 Related Topics


Reading messages from other new members
To read messages from other new members

1	In MSN Central, click Member Assistance, and then double-click MSN Lobby.

2	Double-click the Members Helping Members bulletin board.

 Related Topics


Glossary

A-C

address book

anniversary date

attach

BINHEX

bits per second (bps)

bulletin board

chat

chat history

Chat History pane

chat member

chat member's status

chat room

Compose pane

compression/decompression

connect time

connection indicator

conversation

Conversation view

D-F

Data Center

decompression

domain name

download

e-mail

embed

Explorer

Favorite Places

file library

File view

folder

forum

forum manager

G-M

Go word

host

independent content provider (ICP)

information service

Internet

kiosk

List view

member ID

member list

member properties

Microsoft Exchange

modem

MSN address book

MSN Central

MSN Data Center

MSN folder

MSN service

MSN Today

N-R

network provider

newsgroup

node

notifications

object linking and embedding (OLE)

participant

personal address book

post

private conversation

profile

properties

public conversation

read-only

registration

rich text format (rtf)

ROT13

S

service

shareware

shortcut

Sign-In screen

signup

spectator

subscription

T-Z

taskbar

thread

transfer queue

Uniform Resource Locator (URL)

upload

user name

UUDECODE

UUENCODE

views

virus

Windows Explorer


anniversary date (definition)
anniversary date

The last day of your monthly billing cycle.


attach (definition)
attach

To send a file along with a bulletin board message. An attached file appears in the body of a message as an icon with a filename.

If you have the proper program, you can open the file directly from the message, or you can save it to your computer's hard disk.


BINHEX (definition)
BINHEX

A program for encoding binary data as ASCII hexadecimal numbers. This is useful when sending executable files (code) over the Internet.


bps (bits per second) (definition)
bits per second (bps)

The speed at which a modem can transfer data.


bulletin board (definition)
bulletin board

Sometimes referred to as a bulletin board service (BBS), a bulletin board is an area where you post electronic messages for other MSN members to read, answer, and use. Messages, also called posts, frequently contain file attachments.

Bulletin boards may be read-only (you can read messages but cannot post them) or read-write (you can read and post messages).


chat (definition)
chat

A service that allows you to join real-time conversations with other MSN members from your computer.

A chat room is the designated area in which the conversation takes place.


chat room (definition)
chat room

An area in which MSN members can converse from their computers.


connect time (definition)
connect time

Time you spend connected to MSN.


connection indicator (definition)
connection indicator

The MSN icon that appears next to the time on the taskbar when you are connected to The Microsoft Network.

Use the right mouse button to click the connection indicator to display a menu that includes these commands: Send Mail, Go To, View MSN Central, View Favorite Places, and Sign Out.


Chat History (definition)
chat history

A record of all messages sent to the chat.


chat member (definition)
chat member

An MSN member who is involved in a chat as a spectator, participant, or host.


chat member's status (definition)
chat member's status

A designation as either a spectator of or participant in a chat. The chat host designates each chat member's status.


Chat History pane (definition)
Chat History pane

The upper pane in the Chat window that displays a record of all messages sent to the chat.


Compose pane (definition)
Compose pane

The lower pane in the Chat window in which you write messages.


compress/decompress (definition)
compression/decompression

Compression saves computer storage space or transmission time by reducing the size of files.

Compressed files must be decompressed, or restored to their original form, before you can use them.


conversation (definition)
conversation

A discussion that occurs in a chat room.

Conversation may also refer to a thread or group of related messages in a bulletin board.


download (definition)
download

To copy a file from a remote computer to your computer.


e-mail (definition)
e-mail

Electronic mail. A service that allows you to send messages and files to other MSN members (or to anyone connected to the Internet) over a network.


embed (definition)
embed

As used on MSN, to insert a shortcut representing an MSN service into an e-mail or bulletin board message.


Explorer (definition)
Windows Explorer

A Windows 95 feature that allows you to view hierarchies of folders on your computer and on the network.

In Windows Explorer, Windows displays a hierarchy pane on the left and a content pane on the right. You can navigate through folders and files using either or both of the panes. Sometimes, this hierarchy is called a tree or path.


Favorite Places (definition)
Favorite Places

An area where you can keep icons that provide direct access to places on MSN you visit frequently.


file library (definition)
file library

A bulletin board in which files, attached to messages, can be uploaded and downloaded (copied to and from the bulletin board).


folder (definition)
folder

A container for programs and files, represented by an icon of a file folder. A folder is the equivalent of a directory in previous Windows and MS-DOS operating systems.

As used in The Microsoft Network, a folder represents a forum, or collection of related services.


forum (definition)
forum

A collection of bulletin boards, chats, and files about a particular subject of interest.

Each forum has a designated forum manager who organizes and manages the forum.


forum manager (definition)
forum manager

A person who organizes and manages a particular subject area on MSN. The forum manager is sometimes known as the system operator or sysop.


Go word (definition)
Go word

A brief name assigned to a service that enables you to reach it directly.

You can use the Go To command from the Edit menu in any MSN window.


MSN Central (definition)
MSN Central

The main MSN window that appears immediately after you sign in. MSN Central gives you access to all MSN information and services.


Internet (definition)
Internet

A large, loosely structured network that connects commercial, educational, and government networks worldwide.


host (definition)
host

The MSN member who moderates activities within a chat room.


independent content provider (ICP) (definition)
independent content provider (ICP)

A person or organization that offers a service by creating a forum on MSN.


MSN address book (definition)
MSN address book

Lists the name, city, state, country, and member ID for all MSN members.


MSN folder (definition)
MSN folder

A Windows 95 folder that contains all of the MSN programs.


member ID (definition)
member ID

A unique name that distinguishes one MSN member from another.

Your member ID followed by "@msn.com" is your Internet mailing address.

JaneM@msn.com

RainyInSeattle@msn.com


MSN service (definition)
MSN service

Something you can do on MSN. For example, services include updated weather, news, sports, and stock quotes as well as bulletin boards and chats.


member list (definition)
member list

A list of all MSN members in a chat.


member profile (definition)
member properties

Information about an MSN member, such as name, address, and member ID.


modem (definition)
modem

A device that enables a computer to transmit and receive information over a telephone line.


MSN Today (definition)
MSN Today

An area in MSN Central that includes daily highlights, tips, links to other MSN services, and previews of upcoming services.


newsgroup (definition)
newsgroup

A set of related messages available over the Internet. For example, the newsgroup news.answers contains messages (or posts) regarding frequently asked questions about the Internet.


notifications (definition)
notifications

Messages displayed in bold in the Chat History pane that alert you when other MSN members enter or leave the chat.

You can hide any or all of these notifications by clicking the chat Tools menu, and then clicking Options.


OLE (definition)
object linking and embedding (OLE)

A protocol by which an object (such as a graphics file) in one program can be linked to or embedded in a file in another program.


participant (definition)
participant

Status of a chat room member who can read comments from and send comments to other MSN members.


personal address book (definition)
personal address book

Part of the MSN address book in which you can list the name, city, state, country, and other information about other MSN members and users of other online systems.

Because it is stored on your computer, your personal address book may provide information faster than the MSN address book, and it is available even when you are not connected to MSN.


private conversation (definition)
private conversation

A chat visible only to a select group of MSN members.


post (definition)
post

To send a message to a bulletin board to be read by other members of that bulletin board.


properties (definition)
properties

Information about services, files, folders, and other objects.

For files, properties include details such as name, size, and type. For services, properties include the name of the person responsible for the object (forum manager).

You can display an object's properties by clicking the File menu, and then clicking Properties.


public conversation (definition)
public conversation

A chat visible to every MSN member.


read-only (definition)
read-only

A bulletin board in which you can read messages but cannot post them.

Also, a file that you can view but not modify.


registration (definition)
registration

A transaction that enables you to send registration information to MSN. When you complete online registration, you can sign up for, and connect to, MSN.


shareware (definition)
shareware

Software available without charge. The author usually requests some payment to cover costs.


Shortcut (definition)
shortcut

A direct link to a service, program, folder, or file. You can send shortcuts in e-mail or bulletin board messages.

One way to create a shortcut is by dragging its icon to your desktop or to any folder that's not on MSN.


Sign-On screen (definition)
Sign-In screen

Enables you to type your member ID and password, and then connect to MSN by dialing the appropriate access number. You can choose to have your member ID and password entered automatically at each sign-in.


signup (definition)
signup

Your first connection to MSN. Thereafter, you sign in to MSN.


spectator (definition)
spectator

Status of a chat room member who can read comments from other members but cannot send comments to them.


subscription

A block of time you purchase to use a particular service on MSN.


taskbar (definition)
taskbar

Located at the bottom of the Windows 95 screen. The taskbar contains the Start button and buttons for programs you start or windows you open.


thread (definition)
thread

Bulletin board messages that share a common subject. Sometimes called a conversation.

A bulletin board's Conversation view groups messages by subject.


transfer queue (definition)
transfer queue

A list of files being copied to or from MSN.


upload (definition)
upload

To copy a file on your computer to a remote computer, making it available to others over a network.


UUDECODE (definition)
UUDECODE

A program for converting the ASCII output of UUENCODE back to binary. This is useful when reading executable files (programs) that have been sent over the Internet.


UUENCODE (definition)
UUENCODE

A program for encoding binary data as ASCII. This is useful when reading executable files (programs) that have been sent over the Internet.


views (definition)
views

MSN bulletin boards have three views. You can sort all three views by subject, author, or date.

Conversation view displays a list of messages grouped by subject.

File view displays a list of all messages that have attachments.

List view displays a list of all messages in the bulletin board.


virus (definition)
virus

A program that destroys computer files by inserting copies of itself into them. A virus may be able to infect other files when you run an infected file.


Microsoft Exchange (definition)
Microsoft Exchange

Provides one place to view all your messages, whether they arrive by fax, e-mail, or from an online service such as MSN or CompuServe.


Microsoft Exchange profile (definition)
Microsoft Exchange profile

Contains information such as the delivery location for your incoming e-mail and the locations of your address lists and your personal and public folders.

If you use Microsoft Exchange at home or on the road, you may need to create additional profiles. If more than one person uses the same computer, each person should have his or her own profile.


MSN Data Center (definition)
MSN Data Center

The home of The Microsoft Network. The Data Center is where all of the information about MSN is kept. Everything you do on MSN goes through the Data Center.


node (definition)
node

Any one of the local dial-up centers owned by a network provider.


network provider (definition)
network provider

A company that provides local dial-up service for MSN. Network providers allow MSN members to dial a local phone number to access the service.


kiosk (definition)
kiosk

An online information booth. You can double-click a kiosk icon to open a file with current information about the MSN folder you have open.

For example, if you have a Home Improvement folder open, you can double-click the kiosk icon to see current information about what's in the Home Improvement folder.


rich text format (RTF) (definition)
rich text format (rtf)

Formatting that makes it possible to view text in a variety of programs.


ROT13 (definition)
ROT13

An abbreviation of "Rotate the alphabet 13 places."

ROT13 is a simple encryption device that replaces each letter of the alphabet with the thirteenth letter before or after it. It is primarily used to post Internet newsgroup messages that could offend some readers.

ROT13 is included in most programs that read and post to Internet newsgroups.


user name (definition)
user name

The name someone uses to log on and connect to the Internet or an online service. For example, a user name might be JaneM (based on her real name) or RainyInSeattle (a fictitious name).

Your MSN member ID followed by "@msn.com" is your Internet mailing address.

JaneM@msn.com

RainyInSeattle@msn.com


domain name (definition)
domain name

Designates whether the addressee has access to the Internet from a company (.com), university (.edu), or other organization (.org).


Uniform Resource Locator (URL) (definition)
Uniform Resource Locator (URL)

A way to specify an item on the Internet, such as a file or newsgroup. URLs also specify the service or protocol (such as FTP, Gopher, and Telnet) used to gain access to the item, and they are used extensively on the World Wide Web to specify the target of a hyperlink.


information service (definition)
information service

A utility that enables messaging programs (such as e-mail or FAX) to do one or a combination of the following:

Send and receive items, such as messages and files.

Store items in a personal folder.

Obtain user addresses and directory information.


Click this to change the name or address listed on the billing statement for this account.


Click this to change the payment method for this account.


Displays MSN pricing and product information.


Displays the current balance of your account.


Displays the last day of the current billing period.


Displays hours and minutes of connect time credit remaining on your account for the current billing period.


Displays the date each listed item was charged or credited to your account during the billing period.


Displays a description of all non-zero charges and credits to your account for the billing period. For charges that are calculated based on an exchange rate, exchange rates are shown on their own line after the charge.


Displays the amount charged or credited to your account for each listed item during the billing period.

Payments and credits are shown as negative values.


Displays the total charges, including any applicable taxes, for each listed item during the specified billing period. Payments and credits are shown as negative values.


Click this to view a balance sheet itemizing all charges and credits made to your account during the billing period you specify.


Select the billing period and click OK to view a balance sheet showing all charges and credits made to your account during the period.


Displays your current subscription plan and any subscriptions or credits on your account. Click to view a description of the selected subscription or credit.


Displays a description of the selected subscription or credit.


Click this to change your current subscription plan or to view your subscription options.


Click this to remove a subscription. You cannot remove your current MSN subscription plan or credits.


Displays the amount at which accrued charges will be submitted for billing. Additional charges will be billed separately.


Provides a space for you to enter the single-transaction maximum charge you will allow on your account. You will be alerted if the charge for any single MSN transaction will exceed the amount set, excluding connect-time charges, subscription fees, and surcharges for calls to MSN made from outside your region..


Displays MSN subscription plans. Click to view a description of the selected plan.


Displays a description of the selected subscription plan.


Displays the name of the file or folder.


Displays the name of the MSN service that this shortcut connects to.


Specifies the type of service (for example, chat room or bulletin board) or folder that this shortcut connects to.


Indicates the language (for example, English) primarily used in this service.


Indicates the geographic location where this service applies. If this box contains "The World," the service does not apply to a particular geographic region.


Lists the Go words for the service.


Describes the subject matter for this service.


Provides a description of the service.


Help is available for each item in this group. Click [image] at the top of the dialog box, and then click the specific item you want information about.


Type the Go word for the MSN service that you want to open.

To display the Go word for a service, find the service, use the right mouse button to click the service, and then click Properties.


Goes to the MSN service with the Go word you typed.


Closes this dialog box without going to a service.


 Provides a place for you to specify what to search for.

Type your own query, following these examples:

These criteria	Find services with the
Kids games Kids and Games	Word "kids" and the word "games".
kids, GAMES Kids or Games	Word "kids" or the word "games".
"Kids and games"	Exact phrase "kids and games".
Searches are not case-sensitive.

You can use asterisk (*) and question-mark (?) wild card characters in the middle or end of the search criteria. For example,

These criteria	Find services with words like
gam*	"game," "games," and "gaming".
b?ll	"Ball," "bell," and "bill".
ca?	"Cat" and "cab"


Specifies whether the names of the services will be searched.


Specifies whether each service's keywords for topic, place, and people will be searched.


Specifies whether the description for each service will be searched.


Finds services only of the specified types.


Finds services associated only with the specified geographic regions.

Type your own query, following these examples:

These criteria	Find services with the
New York New and York	Word "New" and the word "York".
New, York New or York	Word "New" or the word "York".
"New York"	Exact phrase "New York".
Searches are not case-sensitive.

You can use asterisk (*) and question-mark (?) wild card characters in the middle or end of the search criteria.

If your search does not find any services, it may be because no services specify the exact place you entered. Type another name for the area, or leave this field empty.


Begins your search.


Ends your search immediately, whether or not there are more services to be found.


Begins a new search.

If you click this button, you will lose the search criteria you specified, as well as the results of your previous search.

You can save the search criteria you specified by clicking the File menu, and then clicking Save Search.

You can save a service on your desktop by clicking it with the right mouse button, and then clicking Create Shortcut.


You can narrow your search by specifying which types of information to search.


Provides a space for you to type the password you are currently using to sign in to MSN.


Provides a space for you to type the new password you'll use when signing in to MSN.

You should keep this password secret to ensure that no one else can sign in as you and charge services to your account. You might want to note the password and keep it in a secure location in case you forget it.


Provides a space for you to type the new password again. It will be compared to the new password you entered above and you'll be asked to try again if the two don't match exactly.


Specifies whether you'll be notified with a pop-up message whenever new e-mail arrives during your online session.

Clear this check box if you do not want to be notified. Clearing this option will not disable e-mail-checking or the e-mail notification indicator in the status bar .


Specifies whether MSN Today, an online catalog of current happenings on The Microsoft Network, will be displayed whenever you sign in.

Clear this check box if you do not want MSN Today to be displayed at startup.


Provides a space for you to type the number of minutes you would like MSN to wait before it automatically disconnects you after a period of inactivity.

MSN will warn you 30 seconds before it disconnects. At that time you can cancel the warning and remain online. The disconnect clock will be reset to the time specified.


Lists the groupings available for viewing content (bulletin boards, files, chat rooms, and other services).

All the content on MSN is sorted and grouped by language and geography. If you want to view content that is relevant to other languages and geographic regions, click a different content view.

Changes to this setting will take effect the next time you connect to MSN.


Specifies whether all content (bulletin boards, files, chat rooms, and other services) associated with the specified content view is shown, or whether only content identified with the language specified in Content View is shown.

Clear this check box if you do not want to see content in other languages.

Changes to this setting will take effect the next time you connect to MSN.


Provides a space for you to type your member ID. This is the name you provided during signup that uniquely identifies you on MSN and that is associated with your password.


Provides a space for you to type your password. The text you type will appear as asterisks (*) so that your password can be kept confidential.


Click this to dial and connect to MSN.


Click this to change dialing properties, modem settings, and the local access numbers used to dial MSN.


Click this if you have a modem connected to your computer, or if you are uncertain. Windows will analyze your hardware and, if it detects a modem, install the proper software so that it can work with MSN.


Click this if you do not have a modem connected to your computer, or if you do not want to set up a modem at this time.


Displays your access rights to this service. For some MSN services, you must register with the service to gain access rights. If the service is free and you are not required to register, this box is empty.


Displays the top-level category for this service.


Displays a brief description of this service.


Displays the Go word for this service.


Displays the name of the service on MSN.


Displays the cost (if any) to use this service.

Note that this amount will be charged to your account each time you open the service.


Provides a space for the person who manages this service to suggest an appropriate audience for the service's content.


Displays the type of service (for example, chat room or bulletin board).


Click this to gain access to a service that requires you to register or subscribe. Your current access rights to this service are displayed below Price on the General tab.


Displays the date this service was created.


Indicates the language (for example, English) primarily used in this service.


Displays the date this service was last modified. For file libraries, for example, it would indicate the last time a file was copied (uploaded) to the file library.


Displays the size of this service.


Displays the name of the person or organization that sponsors this service, if applicable.


Displays the names of people who help to define this service's content. They could be the subject of or the inspiration for the service. For example, Raphael might be listed in an Italian Renaissance Art bulletin board.


Indicates the geographic location where this service applies. If this box displays "The World," the service does not apply to one particular geographic region.


Displays the name of the person who manages this service.


Provides an historical context for the service, if one applies. For example, a service might relate to an historical event, to an era, or to current news.


Displays brief categories or topics that describe the subject matter of this service.


Opens a new window every time you open a folder in MSN. The previous folder will still be displayed in a window, so you can switch between them.

The example shows how the windows will open.


Displays the contents of each MSN folder you open in the same window. To switch back to the previous folder, click [image]  on the toolbar, or press the BACKSPACE key.

The example shows how one window stays open and displays the contents of each folder you open.


Click this if you've signed up for MSN and already have a member ID and password. If you're not yet a member, this check box should be cleared.


Provides a space for you to type the first three digits of the phone number your computer is currently dialing from.

Signup uses this information to determine which local phone numbers are available in your area for connecting to MSN.


Provides a space for you to type your area code or city code.

Signup uses this information to determine which local phone numbers are available in your area for connecting to MSN.


Displays the country from which you are registering Windows or connecting to MSN. If this information is incorrect, click the setting you want.


Displays the state or region from which you are registering Windows or connecting to MSN. If this information is incorrect, click the setting you want.


Lists the numbers in your state or region that you can use to register Windows, sign up to become an MSN member, or connect to MSN after you've completed the signup process.


Click this to choose phone numbers that your computer will dial to connect to MSN.


Click this to specify the location you are dialing from, dialing options, and whether it is a long distance call.


Click this to set properties for your modem, such as the port it is connected to, its speed, and connection preferences.


Lists the modems installed on your computer. Highlight the one you want to use to connect to MSN.


Closes the dialog box and attempts to reconnect to MSN by using the new settings.


Click this to provide mailing information necessary for setting up your MSN account.


Click this to select the method you'll use to pay for the MSN monthly membership fee and other charges you may incur while using MSN. You can change the payment method later if necessary.


Click this to read the MSN membership rules. To become a member, you must acknowledge that you agree to the rules.


Click this to see the MSN pricing plan for your specified country.


Click this to see a current list of services and information available through MSN.


Click this to send your account information and complete the signup process.


Describes the MSN services and information available to date.

To open and print this information, double-click My Computer, double-click the Program Files folder, double-click The Microsoft Network folder, and double-click Prodinfo.rtf. Click the File menu, and then click Print.


Explains the pricing plan for the country indicated above. If you change your location, the pricing plan may vary.


Provides a space for you to type the first name that will appear on your MSN account. This information is required for credit validation.


Provides a space for you to type the last name that will appear on your MSN account. This information is required for credit validation.


Provides a space for you to type the company to which this version of Windows is licensed (if applicable).


Provides a space for you to type your street address. This information is required for credit validation.


Provides an extra line for you to continue your street address.


Provides a space for you to type your city. This information is required for credit validation.


Provides a space for you to type your state. This information is required for credit validation.


Provides a space for you to type your postal code. This information is required for credit validation.


Specifies whether you will receive promotions for Microsoft and Microsoft-affiliated products. If checked, you will still receive information about events on MSN.


Click your country in the list.


Provides a space for you to type the area code for your home phone number.


Provides a space for you to type your home phone number. This is the number Microsoft will use if you need to be contacted.


Click this if you are unable to comply with the MSN membership rules. You cannot become a member unless you agree to them, however.


Click this to acknowledge for our files that you have read and agree with the membership rules.


Explains the rules to which you must agree in order to become an MSN member.

To open and print this information, double-click My Computer, double-click the Program Files folder, double-click The Microsoft Network folder, and double-click Legalagr.rtf. Click the File menu, and then click Print.


Select your payment method from the list. You can change the payment method later if necessary.


Provides a space for you to type the bank name that appears on your credit card.


Provides a space for you to type the number that appears on the front of your credit card.


Provides a space for you to type the month your credit card expires.


Provides a space for you to type the year your credit card expires.


Provides a space for you to type the name of the credit card holder as it's printed on the front of the card.


Provides a space for you to type the name as it appears on the checking account.


Provides a space for you to type the bank name as it appears on the checking account.


Provides a space for you to type the city where the bank is located.


Provides a space for you to type the state where the bank is located.


Provides a space for you to type the routing number that appears on the checks. This is the set of numbers that comes before the account number.


Provides a space for you to type the account number that appears on the checks. This is the set of numbers that comes after the routing number.


Displays the number that your computer will dial first to connect to MSN.

MSN determines the closest number to you based on the area code and phone number your computer is dialing from. If your computer can't connect to MSN using the primary number, it will automatically try to connect by dialing the backup number, if one is indicated. If you need to change an access number, click Change to see the list of numbers.


Displays the number your computer will dial if it can't connect to MSN by using the primary number.

If your computer can't connect to MSN using the primary number, it will automatically try to connect by dialing the backup number, if one is indicated. MSN determines the closest number to you based on the area code and phone number your computer is dialing from. If you need to pick or change an access number, click Change to see the list of numbers.


Click this to select the phone number you want your computer to dial to connect to MSN from now on. You can change the access number later if necessary.


Provides a space for you to type the member ID you'd like to use and be known by each time you sign in to MSN.

This is the ID other MSN members will see when you send e-mail, participate in a chat room, or post a message to a bulletin board service. MSN will verify that your ID doesn't match another MSN member's ID. If it does, you'll need to create a different one.


Provides a space for you to type the password you'll use when signing in to MSN.

You should keep this password secret to ensure that no one else can sign in as you and charge services to your account. You might want to note the password and keep it in a secure location in case you forget it. You can change your password at any time by clicking the Tools menu, and then clicking Password.


Click this to have your member ID and password filled in automatically each time you sign in to MSN.


Presents a Calendar of Events listing the latest happenings on MSN.

To open the document with this information, double-click My Computer, double-click the Program Files folder, double-click The Microsoft Network folder, and double-click Newtips.rtf. To print the information, click the File menu, and then click Print.


Closes this dialog box, using the information you entered.


Closes this dialog box without saving any information you entered.


Dials MSN and retrieves information.


Provides an opportunity for you to type your member ID and password again.


Displays the subject of the message.

If this is empty, it is because the person who posted the message did not include a subject line.


Displays an ID for the message.


Displays the date this message was posted.


Displays the number of attachments for this message.


Specifies whether the forum manager has approved the attachments to this message. If the message has been approved, the forum manager has verified that the file contains no viruses, copyright violations, or information about illegal acts.


Displays the amount you will be billed for each attachment you download to your computer.