Internet Support

The Dreamcast includes a V.90 56K modem for Internet access. When you first insert the bundled Internet software it will bring up a menu asking if you wanted to register as a new customer for AT&T WorldNet, the preferred ISP, or if you already have your own ISP. Setup involves inputting the phone numbers, the email servers, and your user id and password. Proxy server support is also included.

Sega Network

Logging in...

Once that's finished, you can head on to any website you want. The browser supports most HTML commands including JavaScript (though some JS code refuses to load properly), and everything is displayed with scrolling virtual-desktop support ensuring that the 640x480 limitations of the TV do not hamper your web browsing experience. Although this is not developed by Microsoft, I've found the browser to be about as good as a stand-alone WebTV unit. In other words, someone who is satisfied with WebTV will be satisfied with the Dreamcast. This is pretty impressive since a WebTV Classic is already $99 while the 56K WebTV Plus retails for $199. In addition to web access, the software also allows you to chat on IRC (a keyboard is a must!) and to download saved games for your VMU. This is perfect way for people with PC-phobia to get on the 'net -- I don't expect this to be a primary Internet vehicle for FiringSquad's readers although it can be nice to browse the web on the TV. In the future, the Dreamcast will be able to use the Internet for multiplayer gaming.