Using Web-based News Reader
Below you’ll find information on how to access newsgroups using a Web-based newsreader. Internet Explorer 4.0 and newer versions and Netscape 4.6 and newer versions allow you to display and join newsgroup discussions directly in your browser. Included in this page are instructions for:
Accessing Newsgroups
The table of contents is on the left side of the newsgroup Web interface and lists topics by product or technology. Clicking the newsgroup name will open the newsgroup in the upper-right frame of the interface and display the conversation threads posted to this newsgroup.
Operating the Message Tree
The message tree interface in the upper right frame groups the individual conversation threads in the newsgroup. Click on a plus sign next to a message to expand the conversation thread beneath it. To collapse the thread, click on the minus sign. A message with no sign has no replies.
Searching Message Groups
You can search newsgroups for specific messages using up to three criteria: From line, Subject line, and Message body. To begin your search, click the Search link at the top or bottom of the newsgroup. By default, the current newsgroup will appear in the Look In field. Enter your desired search criteria, choose a date range, and click the Search link at the top of the page. Messages that match your criteria will be displayed in a form similar to that of the sorted groups. When you are ready to conduct a different search, enter your new search criteria, and click Search again.
Reading Messages
To read a message, click its subject line. When you click a subject, the body of the message will appear in the lower-right frame. Included in this frame are buttons that give you the option to compose a new message, compose a reply, reply to the author directly via e-mail, or forward the message via e-mail.
Composing a New Message
To compose a new message, click the New Post button in the lower-right frame. In the window that appears, a form will allow you to compose a new message with fields for the sender’s name, sender’s e-mail, subject, and body. By default, the currently selected newsgroup will appear in the Newsgroups field. You can also attach a file to your new message. Once you have filled out the message fields and clicked the Send link, your message will be processed and posted to the newsgroup.
Composing a Reply
You can reply to individual messages by clicking the Post Reply button in the lower-right frame. In the new message window, a form will allow you to compose a reply with fields for the sender’s name, sender’s e-mail, subject (already filled in), and body. You can also attach a file to your new message and quote the original message. Once you have filled out the message fields and clicked the Send link, your message will be processed and posted.
