Easy Searcher, a free service of PY Computer Solutions, is designed to permit searching the Internet with ease. No problems were encountered working with Easy Searcher. Full instructions are on the home page (http://www.easysearcher.com/home.html).
This directory contains two separate pages: Easy Searcher 1 and Easy Searcher 2. Easy Searcher 1 consists of seven search engines: Alta Vista Search, excite, Go Network, Hotbot, Lycos, MSN, and Yahoo! The user simply selects a search engine, clicks on the empty box, and types in the text box. A “Helpful hints” page and a “Frequently asked question” (FAQ) page are posted to assist the user. The reviewer has utilized Easy Searcher to work with each of the seven search engines in Easy Searcher 1. They are quick in responding and easy to use via the Easy Searcher 1 route. Screens are simple to handle and easy to read. They are not cluttered with advertisements as are some directories, home pages, etc.
Easy Searcher 2, the second page, categorizes a variety of search engines which are displayed by drop down menus. A click on the selection moves immediately to the identified search engine and searching begins. Full capability of each search engine is available. Those with questions can use the help page and “Frequently asked question” page of their chosen search engine. Instructions are online for making Easy Searcher 2 the homepage on the following browsers:
Netscape 3.2;
Netscape 4.0;
Internet Explorer 3.0;
Internet Explorer 4.0;
AOL 3.0; and
WEB TV.
Working with the menu on Easy Searcher 2, it was determined that some engines reach capacity, especially during the afternoon. While the directory itself functions very well, anyone electing to use it must remember there will still be the troubling problem of inaccurate URLs and outdated Web pages on the Internet. This is not unusual with directories.
In reviewing and practicing with Easy Searcher, an e‐mail inquiry was answered the same day. This site is updated at least every month, or more frequently. It was learned via the e‐mail that those wishing to contact the publisher generally use the Webpatrol(webpatrol@easysearcher.com).
Easy Searcher is highly recommended for the beginner and for the experienced Internet searcher. Decisions to use Easy Searcher for beginners will be influenced by the ease with which they can access several search engines. Experienced Internet searchers are encouraged to study the categorized listing of search engines in Easy Searcher 2. This information can easily be printed by selecting the print only format and clicking the print button. Easy Searcher is not a duplicate of the Encyclopaedia Britannica Inc.’s Britannica Internet Guide, or Voltage.com’s Encyberpedia Index. Comparisons are encouraged because each is outstanding on its own. Search engines on Easy Searcher will attract a sizeable community of users.
