by Ally Hart

Created on: September 17, 2009

Social networking websites have everybody talking or at least chatting. Allowing you to search, find and keep up to date contact with friends, family and even people you used to know.

Facebook is one of the most popular social networking sites today. Helping hundreds upon thousands of people connect and reconnect via the world wide web. Simple yet sophisticated, people from every aspect and age group around the world use it.

Facebook was first created for use in college and university campus so students and alumni alike could get to know each other and keep up to date with campus news. Facebook is now a very public place but it can be fun once you get the hang of it.

Once you sign up, which is free, create your profile. Warning to the novice of the Internet, do not put any information on facebook you wouldn't want a stranger to know such as your exact address or home phone number.

Basic information such as the about me section and a nice photo will do. No need to go on about your life history, chat and messages are available for that.

Finding people is made easy for new users, a step by step process you can add by email address, search by name or invite people to join you on facebook.

Once you start adding people and have them add you have fun, keep in mind although facebook has privacy policies some of these are disregarded when third party applications are installed on your facebook such as super wall or greeting cards etc. They do ask permission but again it's the Internet so share only what you would want people to know.

Facebook has changed it's appearance over the years but it's still pretty basic and easy to use. Just about every age group is on it.

Some of the features you may be interested in are the real time chat, private messaging and becoming a fan of your favorite music, tv, movie stars by joining their facebook fan page etc all at the click of a button.

Facebook can be brought on the go. If you are like many busy people these days you probably own a hand-held of some kind. Blackberry and iPhone have applications that allow you to use facebook on the go via wifi or 3G Internet access through your cell provider. Less gadgets than the web based facebook but useful none the less.

Facebook is made to connect people electronically, any issues with other members should be reported to the proper authorities at facebook. Over all enjoy it But do beware, it can become extremely addicting.

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