by Leigh Goessl

Created on: June 01, 2011   Last Updated: June 03, 2011

Over the last several years Facebook has grown to become the most popular social network on the web. Currently at 500 million members and counting, the web community has made it clear that Facebook is the social network of choice over the past several years.

As social networking in general has become a staple in the daily routine of millions, for many, Facebook has perhaps evolved into a habitual activity people tend to engage in frequently. That being said, there are many pros and cons of using Facebook.

Here are a few of the top advantages and disadvantages many members experience when using the network:

Pros of being a Facebook member

• Easy way to communicate and share

Today's fast-paced society is all about easy communication and, in this respect, Facebook delivers. Users can keep connected through Facebook's many options, even being able to do so through their mobile phone. Communicating via Facebook allows members to have all their messages in one place, as email and voicemail can get lost in the daily shuffle.

Many family members and friends use Facebook as their preferred method of communication because messages are quick to send, or people can provide updates through a simple wall post that will go to their friends' feeds. Multiple messages and/or updates can be sent with one action, rather than sending out individual messages. As a bonus, photo sharing is a snap, no longer any need to upload to emails and have to send multiple emails to share dozens of photos.

• Reconnect with old friends and colleagues

Have you ever wondered what happened to former classmates, colleagues or even old flames? If so, there is a probable chance that individual, or at least someone in contact with that person, is a Facebook member. In the 'old days' people had to wait to attend school reunions, hear word through the grapevine, or dig through the white pages hoping to find someone.

Finding people is often a snap because Facebook's business model is built upon real identities rather than chat-based names. The network's search feature makes it pretty easy to locate people you might be seeking. Once connected, Facebook members can effortlessly keep abreast of what's happening with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances.

• Free membership

Unlike some other websites, Facebook is free to join and offers many services at no cost to users since the model is based on a free membership concept and the site earns from other avenues, such as advertising. Members

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