Promo: Want to cruise the Internet, but you're not sure your computer can handle it? Get out your "Big Chief" tablet and number 2 pencil to write down what you need to start surfing the Web.

Before getting an account with a local Internet service provider, there are some minimum requirements that your computer needs to meet.

While you may be able to get online with something short of this list, your enjoyment could be greatly hampered.

If you have a IBM-compatible PC, you will need a 486 or better processor.

The processor speed determines how well your computer runs programs. A 586, 686 or Pentium(tm) computer can make all your programs faster and many new programs require these faster processors.

For Macintosh fans, you can use any Mac that supports System 7.1 or later, but preferably a PowerMac or compatible.

With any computer you get, you will need at least 16 megabytes of Random Access Memory, commonly called just "RAM."

You will also need about 50 MB of free disk space on your computer's hard drive. If you are buying a new computer, get at least a 1 GB hard drive for all those new programs.

Surfing on the Internet isn't possible without a modem to connect to the phone line, so you need to have a 28.8 kbps or faster modem. If your Internet service provider supports it, 33.6 and 56K modems can bring you the text, pictures and sounds, of the Internet more quickly.

Optionally, a sound card can make the difference between looking at and actually hearing the Internet. More and more Web sites now include sound and video clips, so don't miss out.

Finally, while not part of your computer, you may also want to get a separate phone line installed. Most people find the Internet so helpful and fun that it often ties up the phone line and you still need to call out for pizza...that is unless you want to order it online (www.pizzanet.com).

From age 6 to 96 and beyond, there is something on the Internet for everyone. I'm Jack Nelson, The Internet Tutor.