What are compressed graphics? They are the web designers worst nightmare!

If you use AOL, and some graphics look like they were dipped in a bucket of psychadelic paint, then likely you are using compressed graphics. This means you are missing out on a lot of what the internet has to offer you.

Graphics are a very important part of a websites look, and should not be compressed by your internet browser. Leave that up to the graphic artist creating the images. If he knows what he is doing, he will have them compressed for you.

If you use the America Online browser, please check to be sure that your "compressed graphics" feature is turned off. When you load AOL on to your computer, this feature is automatically turned on for you so that it appears that AOL is faster than it actually is. AOL's browser converts some images into low color .art files, making them load quicker but sacrificing everything else in the process.

To turn off compressed graphics and enjoy the web the way it was meant to be enjoyed, follow these simple instructions:

1. Sign on to AOL
2. Go to Keyword: Preferences
3. Select "Preferences Guide"
4. Select "The Web"
5. Select "Set Up Now"
6. From the dialog box that pops up, select the "Web Graphics" tab.
7. Deselect the box where it says "Use compressed graphics"

You can also avoid this problem by simply using your system browser as opposed to AOL's browser. You can do this by going to your Windows Start Menu, and then going to Programs, and then Internet Explorer. This will not only avoid the problem you have with compressed graphics, but it will speed up your surfing experience as you are bypassing AOL's already overloaded connections and running straight off of your local dial-up number. So give yourself a break, and break away from AOL's ball and chain of a browser.