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By DAVE GUSSOW
© St. Petersburg Times, published July 30, 2001
So you're fed up with America Online, or you're new to the Web and looking to sign up with somebody other than the online giant.
The problem isn't that you have no alternatives but that there are so many that it's bewildering, hundreds just in the Tampa Bay region and thousands nationally.
Some Web sites offer help. CNet (webservices.cnet.com/html/aisles/Internet_Access.asp) allows people to search using factors such as type of service (dial-up over phone lines, cable or digital subscriber line, for example), price or area code.
The List (www.thelist.com) and Boardwatch magazine (www.boardwatch.com) offer similar functions.
Here are a few tips for those looking: Talk to family and friends about what services they use. Ask them what they like or don't like. If some services are offering free trial periods, sign up so you can make your own comparisons.
You can always switch later, except for the one big catch that keeps many folks tethered to AOL even if they'd prefer to go: Just like moving to a new town, moving to a new Internet service provider means changing addresses. You'll have to go through the hassle of making sure your personal and professional friends know you have a new e-mail address.
On the brighter side, a fresh e-mail identity might give you a respite before those annoying junk messages manage to find you again.