Use OE as newsgroup ?

[DonE]

I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
without having to defend themselves from those who resort
to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
still trying to learn about computers and use the
newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?

[Will Denny]

Hi

If you are not sure how to setup OE to use News Groups, the following =
article will help you:

"Setting up Outlook Express Newsreader"
http://michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm

Courtesy of MVP Michael Stevens.

You prefer the CDO Interface over OE - why? The CDO Interface is hard =
to search and ergo hard to find your own postings if they are more than =
a few minutes old. I can't see any advantages of using the CDO =
Interface instead of a News Reader - perhaps you can change my mind!!!!

You're lucky that you haven't posted this message into one of the Win ME =
news groups...

Will

"DonE" > wrote in message =
...
> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in=20
> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone=20
> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some=20
> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt=20
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"=20
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like=20
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves=20
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion=20
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort=20
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a=20
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm=20
> still trying to learn about computers and use the=20
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable=20
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>=20


---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.518 / Virus Database: 316 - Release Date: 11/09/2003

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>Hi
>
>If you are not sure how to setup OE to use News Groups,
the following article will help you:
>
>"Setting up Outlook Express Newsreader"
>http://michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
>
>Courtesy of MVP Michael Stevens.
>
>You prefer the CDO Interface over OE - why? The CDO
Interface is hard to search and ergo hard to find your
own postings if they are more than a few minutes old. I
can't see any advantages of using the CDO Interface
instead of a News Reader - perhaps you can change my
mind!!!!
>
>You're lucky that you haven't posted this message into
one of the Win ME news groups...
>
>Will
>
>"DonE" > wrote in message
...
>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that
anyone
>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
some
>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
do'nt
>> we clear the air here and now? If you have
an "opinion"
>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA
like
>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
proves
>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>> without having to defend themselves from those who
resort
>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
say.
>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
newsreader.
>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
I'm
>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either
unavailable
>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>>
>
>
>---
>Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.518 / Virus Database: 316 - Release Date:
11/09/2003
>.
> Will--- I had Microsoft newsreader on my computer
recently,however I prefer the web based reader.Also, I
have no problem finding posts,mine and others, going
several days back.
Apparently I did not make myself clear in my previous
post. I asked for reasons others prefer the OE
newsreader, not why I do not. Any more responses?

[Ken Blake]

In ,
DonE > typed:

> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
> newsgroups is "misinformed",


I've never seen anyone claim that. I've seen lots of people claim
that it's much better to use a newsreader (not necessarily
Outlook Express) than the web-based interface; I very definitely
agree. Although I personally prefer Outlook Express, there are
many other choices of newsreaders, and I wouldn't presume to
insist that anyone else has to prefer my choice.


> and some claim that anyone
> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.


You are certainly welcome to that opinion. I would recommend that
if you don't like Outlook Express, you try another newsreader or
two, but if you decide you don't like any newsreader, and want to
stick with the web-based interface, that's OK with me too. I
think you hurt yourself if that's the choice you make, but you
are certainly free to make it.


> I'm
> still trying to learn about computers and use the
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?


The problem is that using newsgroups with the web-based interface
makes it harder to get that knowledge. But it's your choice; each
to his own.

--
Ken Blake
Please reply to the newsgroup

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>In ,
>DonE > typed:
>
>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>> newsgroups is "misinformed",
>
>
>I've never seen anyone claim that. I've seen lots of
people claim
>that it's much better to use a newsreader (not
necessarily
>Outlook Express) than the web-based interface; I very
definitely
>agree. Although I personally prefer Outlook Express,
there are
>many other choices of newsreaders, and I wouldn't
presume to
>insist that anyone else has to prefer my choice.
>
>
>> and some claim that anyone
>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
some
>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
do'nt
>> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
proves
>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>> without having to defend themselves from those who
resort
>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
say.
>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
newsreader.
>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
>
>
>You are certainly welcome to that opinion. I would
recommend that
>if you don't like Outlook Express, you try another
newsreader or
>two, but if you decide you don't like any newsreader,
and want to
>stick with the web-based interface, that's OK with me
too. I
>think you hurt yourself if that's the choice you make,
but you
>are certainly free to make it.
>
>
>> I'm
>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>
>
>The problem is that using newsgroups with the web-based
interface
>makes it harder to get that knowledge. But it's your
choice; each
>to his own.
>
>--
>Ken Blake
>Please reply to the newsgroup
>
>.
> Well I just checked back and so far I've received two
replies to this time. However neither reply gave any
specifics as to why OE makes a better news reader.
Since OE is easier to search as one claimed,he should
have no problem finding that "misinformed" comment. I
did'nt. And why, pray tell, would using a web based
newsreader make it more difficult to learn ?
Come on people give me specifics , not implied reasons
with no basis in fact. Give everyone reading this the
facts they need to convince them that OE newsreader is
superior. Hope to hear from anyone with reasons based in
provable facts.

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>Hi
>
>If you are not sure how to setup OE to use News Groups,
the following article will help you:
>
>"Setting up Outlook Express Newsreader"
>http://michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
>
>Courtesy of MVP Michael Stevens.
>
>You prefer the CDO Interface over OE - why? The CDO
Interface is hard to search and ergo hard to find your
own postings if they are more than a few minutes old. I
can't see any advantages of using the CDO Interface
instead of a News Reader - perhaps you can change my
mind!!!!
>
>You're lucky that you haven't posted this message into
one of the Win ME news groups...
>
>Will
>
>"DonE" > wrote in message
...
>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that
anyone
>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
some
>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
do'nt
>> we clear the air here and now? If you have
an "opinion"
>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA
like
>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
proves
>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>> without having to defend themselves from those who
resort
>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
say.
>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
newsreader.
>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
I'm
>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either
unavailable
>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>>
>
>
>---
>Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.518 / Virus Database: 316 - Release Date:
11/09/2003
>.
> Color me confused,but why is it that I am lucky I
did'nt post what ever it was on a ME newsgroup ?
If the call went out for all with Windows ME to go beat
up everyone who says what ever you were implying I said,
I must have missed it. My previous computer was Windows
ME. Guess I'd better go fire it up and see whatever it
was to which you were infiring.

[Chek]

DonE,

OK, my reasons for preferring Outlook Express are:
1) Messages refresh every time OE checks for mail (5 mins on my system), so
I don't have the endless drudgery of having to manually refresh a web page.
2) I don't have rows of ads and blinking banners taking up half the
available window space.
3) Threads are more easily followed without clicking back and forth to other
pages.
4) Using a dedicated news server directly leaves out conversion to an html
webpage.
5) The visual layout is so much clearer and cleaner generally.
6) Erm....er...surely only a pussy would read NNTP by HTTP?

How's that?
Chek


"DonE" > wrote in message
...
> > Well I just checked back and so far I've received two
> replies to this time. However neither reply gave any
> specifics as to why OE makes a better news reader.
> Since OE is easier to search as one claimed,he should
> have no problem finding that "misinformed" comment. I
> did'nt. And why, pray tell, would using a web based
> newsreader make it more difficult to learn ?
> Come on people give me specifics , not implied reasons
> with no basis in fact. Give everyone reading this the
> facts they need to convince them that OE newsreader is
> superior. Hope to hear from anyone with reasons based in
> provable facts.

[Ron Joiner]

"DonE" > wrote in message
...
> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
> still trying to learn about computers and use the
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?

"prefrance" huh!


---
Ron's outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.518 / Virus Database: 316 - Release Date: 11/09/2003

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>
>"DonE" > wrote in message
...
>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
some
>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
do'nt
>> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
proves
>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>> without having to defend themselves from those who
resort
>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
say.
>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
newsreader.
>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>
>"prefrance" huh!
>
>
>---
>Ron's outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.518 / Virus Database: 316 - Release Date:
11/09/2003
>
>
>.
>Yes, a typo. By the way, brilliant rebuttal.

[Ronnie Vernon MVP]

DonE wrote:
>> Well I just checked back and so far I've received two
> replies to this time. However neither reply gave any
> specifics as to why OE makes a better news reader.
> Since OE is easier to search as one claimed,he should
> have no problem finding that "misinformed" comment. I
> did'nt. And why, pray tell, would using a web based
> newsreader make it more difficult to learn ?
> Come on people give me specifics , not implied reasons
> with no basis in fact. Give everyone reading this the
> facts they need to convince them that OE newsreader is
> superior. Hope to hear from anyone with reasons based in
> provable facts.

Don

You can flag threads as "watched"
open a newsgroup and show only replies to your messages
keep a copy of all the messages you post
download Headers Only
see where the message was posted from
keep a newsgroup message store for archiving
prevent the display of HTML messages
use Message Rules to highlight your messages and any replies to your
messages with a color
use Message Rules to delete messages from certain people
Block messages from anyone
Search for messages as far back as the message store goes
sort the messages any way you wish
save individual messages as a .nws file to your hard drive

There's more to this list, but this will give you an idea. There are other
newsgroup clients that give many more options than OE and some web based
newsreaders that are much better than the CDO interface that you are using.
CDO is still in it's infancy and there are things being done to improve it's
abilities.

--
Ronnie Vernon
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

Please reply to the newsgroup so all may benefit.
Unsolicited e-mail is not answered.

[Gene K]

Don,
I personally use and prefer Outlook Express for Newsgroups; however, if you
prefer Internet Explorer have at it for still 'tis a free country.
Cheers,
Gene K
"DonE" > wrote in message
...
> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
> still trying to learn about computers and use the
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>

[Sharon F]

On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 15:02:30 -0700, DonE wrote:

> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
> still trying to learn about computers and use the
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?

Don, if you prefer the web interface - that's fine with me.

Personally, I prefer a newsreader - any newsreader - compared to the web
interface.

I have OE, 40tude Dialog and Agent installed. Currently Dialog is my
favorite. What I like about newsreaders is that I can *easily* manage the
newsgroups that I participate in. I can see a thread with a new response in
a glance and go right to that message. The format of a newsreader enhances
the conversational flow. I've tried many times but just do not find the
same workability and flow with the web interface.

You have tried a newsreader and didn't like it. Again, that's fine.

However, many new visitors to these groups are not aware that they have an
alternative to the web interface. Because of this, you will often see
recommendations here for users to give a newsreader a try. They can then
decide for themselves which format they prefer to use.

--
Sharon F
MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>DonE wrote:
>>> Well I just checked back and so far I've received two
>> replies to this time. However neither reply gave any
>> specifics as to why OE makes a better news reader.
>> Since OE is easier to search as one claimed,he should
>> have no problem finding that "misinformed" comment. I
>> did'nt. And why, pray tell, would using a web based
>> newsreader make it more difficult to learn ?
>> Come on people give me specifics , not implied reasons
>> with no basis in fact. Give everyone reading this the
>> facts they need to convince them that OE newsreader is
>> superior. Hope to hear from anyone with reasons based
in
>> provable facts.
>
>Don
>
>You can flag threads as "watched"
>open a newsgroup and show only replies to your messages
>keep a copy of all the messages you post
>download Headers Only
>see where the message was posted from
>keep a newsgroup message store for archiving
>prevent the display of HTML messages
>use Message Rules to highlight your messages and any
replies to your
>messages with a color
>use Message Rules to delete messages from certain people
>Block messages from anyone
>Search for messages as far back as the message store goes
>sort the messages any way you wish
>save individual messages as a .nws file to your hard
drive
>
>There's more to this list, but this will give you an
idea. There are other
>newsgroup clients that give many more options than OE
and some web based
>newsreaders that are much better than the CDO interface
that you are using.
>CDO is still in it's infancy and there are things being
done to improve it's
>abilities.
>
>--
>Ronnie Vernon
>Microsoft MVP
>Windows Shell/User
>
>Please reply to the newsgroup so all may benefit.
>Unsolicited e-mail is not answered.
>
>
>.
>Ronnie Vernon,thank you for the very inclusive reply.
I had no idea OE could be used to do so many things. As
with most other things pertaining to computers so much is
hidden from view. I am however greatly concerned that
knowledgable individuals,corporations or governments have
the ability to track a computer user with so little
effort. I suppose it is a double edged sword ,and like
I've heard,anything typed on a computer is forever.
Maybe with a lot of effort I'll even learn to use OE with
some degree of ease.A year ago I could'nt even switch a
computer on.Again,thank you for your reply.

[Rob Schneider]

DonE wrote:

> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone

Not seen or heard this claim. Nor does it make sense. Noise.

> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some

Not seen or heard this claim. Nor does it make sense. Noise.

> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
> we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
> without having to defend themselves from those who resort
> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
> still trying to learn about computers and use the
> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>

OE is free with Windows XP. It works. It's interface, by nature of
being a client application, is richer than the typical web interface.
If you want something different or better than OE, then by all means
procure such software which is available to purchase or free for download.

If you like your Web-based newsreader, then use it.

Your choice of preferred tool for newsgroup access is, despite what some
like to say, not a political statement and should not be controversial.

Note: not all web-based newsreaders are equal. Some are very simple.
Some have much functionality and may be thought by many to be equally as
good as OE.

It means nothing to compare web-based newsreaders to OE since it really
matters exactly what web-based newsreader you are talking about and
exactly what you mean by saying "web-based".

"Web-based" could mean that the web server returns HTML. Or it could
mean "it runs in browser". Or it could mean it's a Java application.
Or mean it is connected to the Internet (which for some people is what
they think "the web" is called).

All that being said ... people will mostly likely have less trouble to
meet their expectations--especially if their expectations are high and
they have little experience--if they use OE and connect to *reliable*
news servers. For Microsoft-sponsored newsgroups, that means using
news.microsoft.com. Thousands of alternative servers exist.

If users are *searching* for old postings to get information, learnings,
and knowledge, then I recommend using the web-based newsgroup forums,
e.g. http://groups.google.com. Frankly, when one has a
question/problem, this should be the first point of call. If after
going there and not getting satisfaction, then fire up OE and use it as
the collaboration tool for discussion with others.

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 15:02:30 -0700, DonE wrote:
>
>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that
anyone
>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
some
>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
do'nt
>> we clear the air here and now? If you have
an "opinion"
>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA
like
>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
proves
>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>> without having to defend themselves from those who
resort
>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
say.
>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
newsreader.
>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
I'm
>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either
unavailable
>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>
>Don, if you prefer the web interface - that's fine with
me.
>
>Personally, I prefer a newsreader - any newsreader -
compared to the web
>interface.
>
>I have OE, 40tude Dialog and Agent installed. Currently
Dialog is my
>favorite. What I like about newsreaders is that I can
*easily* manage the
>newsgroups that I participate in. I can see a thread
with a new response in
>a glance and go right to that message. The format of a
newsreader enhances
>the conversational flow. I've tried many times but just
do not find the
>same workability and flow with the web interface.
>
>You have tried a newsreader and didn't like it. Again,
that's fine.
>
>However, many new visitors to these groups are not aware
that they have an
>alternative to the web interface. Because of this, you
will often see
>recommendations here for users to give a newsreader a
try. They can then
>decide for themselves which format they prefer to use.
>
>--
>Sharon F
>MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User
>.
>Sharon F. thank you for your reply.
I'm sure someone as comfortable with other types
newsgroups as you seem to be would prefer to use those
rather than a web based. I've never even heard of 40tude
or Agent,or of almost all the others. The learning curve
from where I sit seems quite steep. Perhaps that is why
at this time I prefer what I perceive as the ease of use
of a web based newsreader.
I feel fortunate that I know enough to have a good
firewall and virus protection, when those with vastly
more experience with computers have become infected with
viruses and Worms.Again,thank you for your reply.

[Ron Martell]

"DonE" > wrote:

>I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that anyone
>not using OE has "something to hide".There have been some
>that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why do'nt
>we clear the air here and now? If you have an "opinion"
>you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA like
>to say " It's a free country ", and until someone proves
>me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>without having to defend themselves from those who resort
>to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to say.
>I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based newsreader.
>I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason. I'm
>still trying to learn about computers and use the
>newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either unavailable
>or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?

First of all let me compliment you. You are a fairly rare person in
that you use the web interface and are able to find the replies to
your postings. Most of those who use the web interface are totally
unable to accomplish this feat. Whether that is due to the
deficiencies in the design of the web interface, or the lack of basic
computer skills on the part of those who use the web interface, or a
combination of both, is an open question.

My informal surveys have shown that when some posts a question via the
web interface and it is necessary to ask them for more detailed
information about the problem then only about 25% of these requests
are ever answered. In the same situation where the question was
posted using a newsreader program the response rate is between 80 and
100%.

Using a dedicated newsreader rather than the web interface has many
advantages for the user, pretty well all of which were listed by MVP
Ronnie Vernon in his reply.

I use Outlook Express a bit, for some specialized newsgroups that are
not on my regular news server, and I find it works okay for these but
not as well as Agent which is my "production" news reader, and the one
that I am using right now.

However Agent does not, in its present version, have the ability to
access multiple newsservers without special effort, and so I use
Outlook Express for those newsgroups that are not on the main server
that I access. Also because I am in the computer support business I
must have some familiarity with the quirks and foibles of Outlook
Express so as to be able to properly serve my clients.


Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"The reason computer chips are so small is computers don't eat much."

[Sharon F]

On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 21:37:33 -0700, DonE wrote:

>
>>-----Original Message-----
>>On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 15:02:30 -0700, DonE wrote:
>>
>>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that
> anyone
>>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
> some
>>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
> do'nt
>>> we clear the air here and now? If you have
> an "opinion"
>>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA
> like
>>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
> proves
>>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>>> without having to defend themselves from those who
> resort
>>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent to
> say.
>>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
> newsreader.
>>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is a
>>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
> I'm
>>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either
> unavailable
>>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>>
>>Don, if you prefer the web interface - that's fine with
> me.
>>
>>Personally, I prefer a newsreader - any newsreader -
> compared to the web
>>interface.
>>
>>I have OE, 40tude Dialog and Agent installed. Currently
> Dialog is my
>>favorite. What I like about newsreaders is that I can
> *easily* manage the
>>newsgroups that I participate in. I can see a thread
> with a new response in
>>a glance and go right to that message. The format of a
> newsreader enhances
>>the conversational flow. I've tried many times but just
> do not find the
>>same workability and flow with the web interface.
>>
>>You have tried a newsreader and didn't like it. Again,
> that's fine.
>>
>>However, many new visitors to these groups are not aware
> that they have an
>>alternative to the web interface. Because of this, you
> will often see
>>recommendations here for users to give a newsreader a
> try. They can then
>>decide for themselves which format they prefer to use.
>>
>>--
>>Sharon F
>>MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User
>>.
>>Sharon F. thank you for your reply.
> I'm sure someone as comfortable with other types
> newsgroups as you seem to be would prefer to use those
> rather than a web based. I've never even heard of 40tude
> or Agent,or of almost all the others. The learning curve
> from where I sit seems quite steep. Perhaps that is why
> at this time I prefer what I perceive as the ease of use
> of a web based newsreader.
> I feel fortunate that I know enough to have a good
> firewall and virus protection, when those with vastly
> more experience with computers have become infected with
> viruses and Worms.Again,thank you for your reply.

You're welcome, Don. Use any interface that you want. We're glad to see you
here in the groups. :)

Since you wonder about it: 40tude Dialog is by a young programmer from
Europe. The program handles email and newsgroups. I just use it for
newsgroups. Found a reference to this newsreader on Michael Steven's
website and followed that over to: http://www.40tude.com/dialog/

Nice little tutorial here that does an illustrated walk through on setup:
http://roadwarriorcomputers.netfirms.com/tutorial/tutorial1.htm

To set up the MS server in any newsreader, enter msnews.microsoft.com as
the server name. Default newsgroup port: 119. No user name or password is
required.

--
Sharon F
MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User

[Chek]

DonE
Taking the adversarial approach out of the equation, it's actually a horses
for courses situation.
If it wasn't for web access, it'd be difficult to check newsgroups when
you're away from home for instance.
But I like to get back to using OE after a few days of that!
All the best,
Chek

"DonE" > wrote in message
...
> >Sharon F. thank you for your reply.
> I'm sure someone as comfortable with other types
> newsgroups as you seem to be would prefer to use those
> rather than a web based. I've never even heard of 40tude
> or Agent,or of almost all the others. The learning curve
> from where I sit seems quite steep. Perhaps that is why
> at this time I prefer what I perceive as the ease of use
> of a web based newsreader.
> I feel fortunate that I know enough to have a good
> firewall and virus protection, when those with vastly
> more experience with computers have become infected with
> viruses and Worms.Again,thank you for your reply.

[DonE]

>-----Original Message-----
>On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 21:37:33 -0700, DonE wrote:
>
>>
>>>-----Original Message-----
>>>On Thu, 18 Sep 2003 15:02:30 -0700, DonE wrote:
>>>
>>>> I've seen it mentioned that anyone not using OE in
>>>> newsgroups is "misinformed", and some claim that
>> anyone
>>>> not using OE has "something to hide".There have been
>> some
>>>> that said OE is superior in one way or another. Why
>> do'nt
>>>> we clear the air here and now? If you have
>> an "opinion"
>>>> you are entitled to that opinion. As we in the USA
>> like
>>>> to say " It's a free country ", and until someone
>> proves
>>>> me wrong, everyone is entitled to their own opinion
>>>> without having to defend themselves from those who
>> resort
>>>> to name calling when they have nothing intelligent
to
>> say.
>>>> I'm new to newsgroups and am using a web based
>> newsreader.
>>>> I tried OE but did not like it. Lets just say it is
a
>>>> personal prefrance and I have no scientific reason.
>> I'm
>>>> still trying to learn about computers and use the
>>>> newsgroups to gain knowledge that is either
>> unavailable
>>>> or too difficult for a newbie to locate. Any takers?
>>>
>>>Don, if you prefer the web interface - that's fine
with
>> me.
>>>
>>>Personally, I prefer a newsreader - any newsreader -
>> compared to the web
>>>interface.
>>>
>>>I have OE, 40tude Dialog and Agent installed.
Currently
>> Dialog is my
>>>favorite. What I like about newsreaders is that I can
>> *easily* manage the
>>>newsgroups that I participate in. I can see a thread
>> with a new response in
>>>a glance and go right to that message. The format of a
>> newsreader enhances
>>>the conversational flow. I've tried many times but
just
>> do not find the
>>>same workability and flow with the web interface.
>>>
>>>You have tried a newsreader and didn't like it. Again,
>> that's fine.
>>>
>>>However, many new visitors to these groups are not
aware
>> that they have an
>>>alternative to the web interface. Because of this, you
>> will often see
>>>recommendations here for users to give a newsreader a
>> try. They can then
>>>decide for themselves which format they prefer to use.
>>>
>>>--
>>>Sharon F
>>>MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User
>>>.
>>>Sharon F. thank you for your reply.
>> I'm sure someone as comfortable with other types
>> newsgroups as you seem to be would prefer to use those
>> rather than a web based. I've never even heard of
40tude
>> or Agent,or of almost all the others. The learning
curve
>> from where I sit seems quite steep. Perhaps that is
why
>> at this time I prefer what I perceive as the ease of
use
>> of a web based newsreader.
>> I feel fortunate that I know enough to have a good
>> firewall and virus protection, when those with vastly
>> more experience with computers have become infected
with
>> viruses and Worms.Again,thank you for your reply.
>
>You're welcome, Don. Use any interface that you want.
We're glad to see you
>here in the groups. :)
>
>Since you wonder about it: 40tude Dialog is by a young
programmer from
>Europe. The program handles email and newsgroups. I just
use it for
>newsgroups. Found a reference to this newsreader on
Michael Steven's
>website and followed that over to:
http://www.40tude.com/dialog/
>
>Nice little tutorial here that does an illustrated walk
through on setup:
>http://roadwarriorcomputers.netfirms.com/tutorial/tutoria
l1.htm
>
>To set up the MS server in any newsreader, enter
msnews.microsoft.com as
>the server name. Default newsgroup port: 119. No user
name or password is
>required.
>
>--
>Sharon F
>MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User
>.
>Sharon,thank you for taking the time to provide the
information concerning the additional newsgroups. I have
located both the newsgroup and the setup information and
will look them over carefully and give them a try. Also,
thank you for the info about the MS server and the
default newsgroup port.
I'm beginning to understand the necessity of using OE and
other more dedicated newsreaders and am finding the web
newsreader more difficult to use and correspondence with
individuals over time is becoming equally difficult. Your
efforts are appreciated.

[Brian Tillman]

>Apparently I did not make myself clear in my previous
>post. I asked for reasons others prefer the OE
>newsreader, not why I do not. Any more responses?

One of the biggest reasons for me is that I use a local newserver, so
fetching posts is a lot faster than going over the internet. Also, reading
by browser doesn't allow me to flag conversations to watch, mark everything
as read, manage a killfile, and other reasons.
--
Brian Tillman
Smiths Aerospace
3290 Patterson Ave. SE, MS 1B3
Grand Rapids, MI 49512-1991
Brian.Tillman is the name, smiths-aerospace.com is the domain.

I don't speak for Smiths, and Smiths doesn't speak for me.

[Brian Tillman]

>I am however greatly concerned that
>knowledgable individuals,corporations or governments have
>the ability to track a computer user with so little
>effort.

By sticking to the web-based interface, you make that even easier.
--
Brian Tillman
Smiths Aerospace
3290 Patterson Ave. SE, MS 1B3
Grand Rapids, MI 49512-1991
Brian.Tillman is the name, smiths-aerospace.com is the domain.

I don't speak for Smiths, and Smiths doesn't speak for me.

[Sharon F]

On Fri, 19 Sep 2003 10:11:54 -0700, DonE wrote:

>Sharon,thank you for taking the time to provide the
> information concerning the additional newsgroups. I have
> located both the newsgroup and the setup information and
> will look them over carefully and give them a try. Also,
> thank you for the info about the MS server and the
> default newsgroup port.
> I'm beginning to understand the necessity of using OE and
> other more dedicated newsreaders and am finding the web
> newsreader more difficult to use and correspondence with
> individuals over time is becoming equally difficult. Your
> efforts are appreciated.

You're most welcome, Don and wish you the best of luck with whatever
interface that you end up preferring and using.

--
Sharon F
MS-MVP - Windows XP Shell/User