Back in the 90s, Internet Service Providers used to supply a suite ofsoftware to get users connected to the Internet as quickly as possible. Itconsisted of a pre-configured dialler (often with the local point-of-presencenumber supplied with the software), web browser, mail client and chatapplication. These days are long gone and most ISPs expect you to use InternetExplorer and pretty much any mail application you desire.

Microsoft has been working hard a suite of online/offline tools as part oftheir ?Live' experience. For instance, there is a Mail application that'sdesigned as a replacement for Outlook Express and, some would argue, even theemail client shipped with Vista. Windows Live Messenger is a replacement for theold MSN Messenger.

There are other tools too. For instance, a Photo Gallery application thatwill enable you to manage your photos and upload to the web, to share withfriends and family. There is also a Writer tool that will enable you to produceyour own blog.

With this Windows Live Suite, you can now pick and choose the applicationsyou want to install and the components will be downloaded from the Internet andinstalled to your computer. Some components, however, require a constant onlinebroadband connection.