smcNet recommends that you have at least the following plug-ins installed. There are many more than what's described here, but these basic plug-ins will help you enjoy most web sites out there.

Many newer computers come with all of the following plug-ins already installed. However, it's up to you to keep them updated. So be sure to check periodically to see if you have the latest version.

RealPlayer

The RealPlayer program allows you to hear audio and view video. If you don't have speakers on your computer, you might not want to bother with this program. But if you do have the right hardware, RealPlayer is an absolute must to enhance your internet experience. You will find RealAudio content on sites that sell CDs (like Amazon.com). RealVideo content is common on many news sites (like CNN).

To get the free version of this program, click on the following link, then click on the "Free RealOne Player" link found near the middle of the page.

Get RealPlayer

Adobe Acrobat Reader

This program allows you to view published documents in a layout and format that the author designed. Such documents are more commonly known as PDF (portable document format) files. Unlike standard web pages, printed PDF documents will look 100% identical to the way they look on your computer screen. It is for that reason that most user manuals now-a-days are published in PDF format. PDF files can be viewed in your web browser by clicking an appropriate link, or they can be downloaded and viewed offline. They can even be e-mailed quite easily.

Adobe Acrobat Reader is sometimes confused with its counterpart, Adobe Acrobat. The difference is that Adobe Acrobat allows you to create and view PDF files and it's not free, whereas Adobe Acrobat Reader allows you to only view PDF files, and it's free.

To get the free Adobe Acrobat Reader, click on the following link, and follow the instructions:

Get Adobe Acrobat Reader