Chapter Three

Tools and Toys

You can’t be an avid Internet, or computer, user without knowing what tools are available to enhance your experience. First, you should know that there are tools you should be using.  These tools include, but are not limited to:

• Vanity searching
• Flashdrives
• Memory cards

Vanity searching is one of the most important tools you can implement on the Internet, especially if you use the Internet often. When you use the Internet, like to set up profiles, upload documents and pictures, and fill out information bars, the Internet acts like a camera, taking pictures of the information even after the page is closed or the profile is cancelled. 

A 2006 survey conducted by CareerBuilder found that 51 percent of hiring managers have eliminated a candidate based on the information they have found on the Internet about that candidate.  People who have, or have had, profiles on Facebook and/or Myspace are most at risk for scrutiny, as information isn’t only drawn from your own profile, but from the friends you are associated with on these sites.

Flashdrives and memory cards are important tools because they are easier ways of storing massive amounts of information.  These devices are steps up from floppy disks and CDs because the information can be written and withdrawn as many times as needed.  Flashdrives and memory cards also have longer lifelines and are more durable.

Another tool that is quickly becoming a necessity in today’s world involves an innovation called Mobile 2.0.  More people, everyday, are using their cell phones to access the Internet.  In fact, 70 percent of the 200 million mobile phones in the U.S. are web accessible. Blackberries and IPODs are working with companies like the Weather Channel and ABC/Disney to expand web service, and increase profits, of course. Restaurants, cafes, and bars are making their locations Wi-Fi accessible to attract more customers, and keep them there. 

The need to access the Internet from anywhere, and everywhere, is increasing steadily.  It’s important to keep up with the newest innovations so that you don’t fall behind.