by Carol Mcgrath

Created on: May 26, 2006   Last Updated: January 15, 2012

I have been an AOL customer for years - so many years, that I don't know how many. When I first became an AOL customer, I thought it was wonderful, but as time has gone by, I am realizing that AOL is becoming the "All in one" or "All you will ever need". I have noticed over the years, that AOL is trying to compete with others, such as google.com, internet explorer, spyware programs, anti-virus programs, etc. They now have their own search function, spyware and antivirus protection, and are now into surveys. It's as if they are trying to take over the market on all computer Internet functions. Most recent find - they have the Opinion Place, which is taking surveys for cash! Type in www.opinionplace.com if you are an AOL customer, and you will have the opportunity every 2 weeks to take a survey and get a credit on your bill.

The cons - the Hate:

1) They have a lot of extra junk that downloads onto your computer when you install their software. Unnecessary space waste.

2) They have so many things running all at once that it slows your computer down and your computer may be forever searching for that virtual memory space.

3) I heard that they allow 3rd parties (or whatever you wish to call them) onto your computer, if that company is one of their backers. I get a lot of tracking companies on my computer! I suspect that AOL is allowing this.

4) Now that AOL has their own spyware and anti-virus software, you may be blocked from downloading other programs that may be viewed as their competitors, such as other anti-virus software or spyware protection. Try downloading another provider's software and you will definitely see what I mean.

5) They now have their own AOL search engine! Most recently I noticed that they have "AOL Internet Explorer". What next?

6) They are a space hog. I am always forever emptying out the art files that they save on my computer.

7) There are programs that AOL conflicts with and they won't run correctly. Of course, you won't know this is the problem and will forever be scratching your head.

The pros - the Love:

1) Their instant messaging is great with extra functions!

2) I love the filing system that allows you to save emails, which I do a lot. Downloading files into My Documents is not a problem in either html or text.

3) I love the "favorite places" and the ability to set it up the way I want it set up.

4) Their support is wonderful - Online instant help, 24 hours a day, any day of the week! I have used this for a number of computer problems and questions, and I am terribly impressed.

5) No fiddling around with Outlook Express, because everything is right there at your fingertips. Everything is built into AOL.

6) No hassle sending photos or attachments to my emails. I have never had a problem with size or amount of attachments.

7) Opinion place - this is great! Gives you the opportunity to get a few bucks off of your monthly fees by taking surveys. (Those 3rd parties that I mentioned above?!?)

7 cons and 7 pros - to be fair. Would I go to a different provider? Maybe someday, but I'll wait until something better comes along. I have tried a few other providers, but I haven't found one yet that I like better than AOL, despite all of its problems, and at times, frustrations. To be honest, the few providers that I did try just frustrated me more.

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