To Aol 6 or Not to Aol 6

That Is The Question!

Written by:  Dan Daily 

Hi Gang!

So many of you are asking about Aol6 it's time to give you what I know about it.  In beta testing, we are sworn to secrecy.  But now that it's been released; I can comment on it, so here goes:

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I'm sorry to have to be the bearer of bad news,  No one loves new software more than I.  NO ONE!

Problems, Problems, Problems

The main problem I've found with AOL 6, is that it changes serious Windows files and quite possible ruins them.  It adds a huge stack of Internet Adapters that Windows has to try to sort out.  Many people report they haven't had any problems with this, but many people have. (me included) If you're one of the unlucky ones, you're looking at a complete Windows install at least.  At most; you're looking at a complete wipe of your drive.  

If you're not prepared to do this, don't download AOL6.  

I've had to reinstall Windows three times so far.  I really have to do a complete wipe.  It has screwed up my system beyond repair.  It can be that bad, REALLY!  Aol 6 is also, a security issue.  It adds a ton of Internet adapters to your system.  One of these adapters can engage your file sharing protocol to Aol.  What does this mean?  It means Aol would have the ability, to run your network files, and your computers files.  Why?  Ask Aol.  

If you are concerned about your security, and don't know how to unbind adapters, and disable file sharing, Aol6 is certainly not for you.  

Additionally, If the AOL 6 installation goes bad; your Windows Memory Manager is at risk.  This is why only a wipe will fix the problem.  If you've already downloaded it, and are having no problems.  Don't worry about it today, but it has a way of creeping up on you.  Many that said they had no problems, are now saying they do.

It's really a shame; I did like Aol6 very much.  In my opinion:  Aol6 was either released too soon, or it'll never work correctly.  The fewer the adapters, the better!  Windows works great by itself, why muck it up with a bunch of third party crap?

Email

Aol6 has many email improvements, one of which is HTML email capabilities.  The problem is, it can't send HTML.  At least not yet.  There are also problems with Aol5 email showing correctly on Aol6 screens.  The problem is Aol6 email shows text over background pictures with a halo around it; it's weird.  

AOL Address Book

AOL, in their quest for "AOL Anywhere," (which, incidentally, is a great idea) has put the address book on their own servers.  While the intention is to be able to get your address book anytime anywhere. (even signed on as a guest) You can no longer backup your address book on your computer.  If the AOL servers screw up, (and I don't  know any severs that haven't) you lose your address book forever.  There is no way to back it up to your hard drive, other then copying and pasting the entire organize folder to your drive everyday.  I keep searching for the backup button, but it's no where to be found.  I won't even mention the privacy implications of having your address book on someone else's server.  But, if you couple this with Aol's ability to now run your files; draw your own conclusions.  Many people have had their address books filled with double entries, or even tripled.  While others have had their books cut in half.  (like me)  How can you fix it?  You have to manually enter, and delete all the problems.  Now I ask you, do you really want me to put all your addresses for "Danny's Daily's" on that server, knowing if it screws up, your names are toast?  I thought not; until this is changed, I couldn't use it even if I wanted to.  That goes for all you "List Masters."

Internet Explorer 5.5

I am presently using 5.5, but only because AOL6 completely destroyed my IE5, rendering it un-usable, un-fixable, un-uninstallable, and short of a complete system wipe; it can't be installed again.  5.5 is OK, I don't really notice any difference with it and 5.

Buddy List

The new buddy list screen is huge.  It can't be resized without losing buttons.  Some problems with it:  When your buddy signs off; the buddy list still keeps them on.  This problem obviously was not fixed before final release.

AOL Speaks

A clever program that lets you talk, and your computer types for you.  This will only be available on the CD.  The problem is; after four hours of reading to it to teach it; it's only hitting about 60% accuracy. (you can type a whole lot of emails in four hours).  And, it only works for AOL6.  If you want it to work for all your Windows apps, it's 100 bucks.  So, in essence, it's useless.

Internet Access

It runs about the same, except you'll notice that all of a sudden, you can't get on the Internet.  You'll find yourself uninstalling, and reinstalling your Internet adapters often.

Connect Speeds

This is a real problem with AOL6.  There is no way to know your connection speeds.  The sign on screen doesn't show it, or even flash it by.  At worst; it connects at 28,800 on a modem.  (which is normal for 6)  That's it.  At best; you don't know what your speed is!  This was not fixed before the release, or won't be.  Many of you have written asking about fixing this.  I don't know gang.  And yes, I agree with all of you, it's noticeable.

The Worst Part!!!

You mean there's more???  Yes, there is:  The most troublesome part of AOL6; is that it can also screw up your AOL5.  If Aol6 takes out your browser, going back to 5 will not help this situation; you only have one browser regardless of which version of Aol you use.  Again, only a system wipe will fix these problems.  Basically; it seems to me, Aol6 is still in beta.  Perhaps they shoved it out so Steve Case could introduce it at the Internet show this week.  Or maybe because MSN released their new client on the same day.  In any event, that's the only answer I can give you.  As of this update; 12/5, it is indeed still in beta testing.

Conclusion

This is the very first AOL client I can't recommend for download.  I never thought I'd see the day I'd have to say this.  The testing went so bad, that almost all the experienced testers quit, in fact, they quit in droves!  I'm sure you noticed all the ads for testing.  Usually, AOL only advertises for testers one half an hour a year!  That in itself should tell you something.  If you can't keep experienced testers, who specialize in crashes, you have a real problem.

Aol6 will be a great program when it's finally finished.  I really like it; but not yet gang...Stay tuned:  But if the security issues are not handled, I will NEVER! recommend it.

If you already have it, please email me, and let me know how it's working for you.  From the mail I've received so far, it's running about 50/50.  Please don't ask me for solutions any longer, I don't have them.  You'll have to call Aol.  I'm sure they have all your answers; let me know.  You're all burying me with email about it.  That's why I wrote this column.  I don't have your answers.

When Aol gets wind of this column, which will be today; two dozen of you subscribe:  I'll probably get thrown off the beta program anyway.  But what can I tell ya gang.  You're my people.  Part of what I do for you is a tips site.  What am I going to do, Lie?  Not likely.  I can only call it, the way I see it:  Where the chips fall, I guess they fall...

And yes, as of 10/27, they have indeed pulled my credentials from beta testing.  Although I tried to be impartial, and use your feedback for the column.  Telling the truth, does indeed have a price.  This certainly doesn't say much for certain peoples integrity does it?  Well gang, I couldn't lie.  I believe Aol would be much better off dealing with the message, instead of the poor slob that had to deliver it...  I consider this a fluff piece if anything else.  You should see what I really wanted to write!

Finally:

To you few people who've said your quitting Aol because of what 6 has done to you.  Get real, this isn't the first, or the last problem you've had with your puter.  Your on AOL because it is by far the best!  Clear and simple.  Don't go off joining every ISP out there.  You're only going to come back anyway.  Save yourself the effort;  AOL RULES!

As a follow up:  Please Read My AOL6 Revisited, article.  Just  Click Here

I hope this helps you on your road.  Your Road?

Yes, Your Road To Computer Sanity

                              Danny