Netiquette

6.Stick to the topic when posting a message. Don't indiscriminately post unrelated comments, or worse--advertisements. This practice, known as spamming, will quickly lead to another unpleasant Internet practice, flaming. What is flaming? Sometimes you might offend someone unintentionally. Be prepared to read some angry responses or be treated rudely in a public discussion. This is called being flamed. If you retaliate, you may spark a flame war. To contain the heat, the best response usually is no response at all--or a heartfelt apology.

7.When sending e-mail, make sure that the subject line accurately describes what the message is about. If the topic changes during a string of messages, alter the subject line.

8.If you post a commercial message or send it as an e-mail, clearly identify it in the subject line. That way people who aren't interested can quickly delete it.

9.FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) are handy documents to read before asking questions. Always consult them whenever available.

10.Electronic communications may seem ephemeral, but when you hit the Delete key, they don't go away. In all likelihood, your missives are stored on a mail server and can be retrieved. Think twice before you send e-mail. Consider all your electronic communications to be public and act accordingly. The same holds true for comments you post. They usually can't be retracted and live on and on.

Netiquette isn't something you learn overnight, so don't let your fear of not knowing online protocol hold you back. For more tips, visit Wikipedia's netiquette article.

The Internet has made it possible for people all around the world to connect with each other in meaningful ways. Whether for research, education, business, or just fun, the Internet has changed how we live, work and play in ways we may not even be fully aware of.

As the Internet continues to evolve, so do the issues that influence the way we use it. From privacy and freedom of speech, to honesty and consideration in the way we interact with others, we all have a responsibility to preserve and protect its unique character. That means recognizing that while the medium in many ways is a reflection of the physical world, in other ways it is fundamentally different--manifesting unique customs and practices.

Last update: Jan 11, 2011