WUGNET to Provide Computing Support Forums for CompuServe's "CSi '97" Web-Based Service.

COLUMBUS, Ohio and MEDIA, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 23, 1997--The Windows User Group Network (WUGNET) will provide a broad array of computer software and hardware support Forums for the Web-based version of CompuServe's online service, code-named "CSi '97," the companies announced today.

WUGNET is converting computer Forums from CompuServe's proprietary format to the HTML Internet standard in preparation for the launch of "CSi '97" by year-end 1997, according to Sam Uretsky, vice president and business manager of CSi (CompuServe). Computing Forums will be an important subset of the more than 500 mature, highly populated Forums slated to be available at the launch of "CSi '97."

"WUGNET does an outstanding job today of operating nearly 100 software and hardware support Forums on our proprietary CSi service, which will continue alongside the new Web-based version," Uretsky said. In July 1997, WUGNET integrated the responsibilities of additional computer Forums previously operated by Don Watkins and Ron Luks into WUGNET's current support organization. Luks' company now focuses on running games and entertainment Forums for CSi.

In addition to substantial management skills, WUGNET brings a renowned support organization that was instrumental in the building of peer-to-peer support on CompuServe's Microsoft Connection in the late 1980's and early 1990's. In addition, WUGNET operates the popular Microsoft/WUGNET Shareware Pick of the Week for Windows 95 and Windows NT on Microsoft's web site.

WUGNET is bringing this same expertise and dedication to "CSi '97" computer Forums. Among the most popular Forums WUGNET will contribute to CompuServe's march to the Web are "The Windows 95 Forum" (GO MSWIN95) and "Internet Explorer Support Forum" (GO IESUPPORT). The Windows 95 Forum answered thousands of questions for Windows 95 users during the historical rollout of Windows 95 in August of 1995. The Internet Explorer Support Forum is expected to quickly become a popular resource with the official launch of Microsoft's Internet Explorer 4.0 in October.

Larry McJunkin, WUGNET's Online Director, explained that the computer Forums under conversion are related to Windows, Windows 95 and NT operating systems, software and hardware vendors, computer/Internet trade shows and expos, shareware and other topics. "One of the most valuable added features is peer-to-peer support for CompuServe members," he said.

The current CSi online service has more than 1,400 Forums in total, Uretsky said. "CompuServe has long been recognized as the premier builder of these kinds of online communities. We are committed to advancing this leadership."

WUGNET, founded in 1988 by Sysops and User Group Leaders Howard Sobel and Joel Diamond, officially launched WUGNET on CompuServe in 1989. It is the oldest and largest independent online support organization for the Microsoft Windows, Windows 95 and NT environments, including related products and technology. WUGNET provides technical support through nearly 100 CompuServe online Forums, with special interests in operating systems, hardware/software vendors, computer/Internet trade shows, and software development and Web-related software and tools. An online support staff of nearly 200 windows and programming professionals, noted computer authors, Windows instructors, Microsoft certified professional and software developers are part of the WINSUPPORT(TM) on CompuServe.

The Windows Users Group Network online history dates back to 1988, where it was enlisted by Microsoft to operate the first online support community for Windows 2.0 users and developers. Expansion led to the creation of many technical support Forums featuring shareware, developers and third party vendor products on CompuServe. With each major release of Windows, WUGNET's role on CompuServe's Windows support expanded, including the formal online launch and support for Microsoft's worldwide rollout of Windows 95.

Fosters Community

WUGNET has been a leader in fostering peer community support and online activities and was active in launching user group and special interest groups globally, including groups in Australia, England, Switzerland and other countries.

The organization also created the first electronic version of the Windows Resource Kit for Windows 3.1, and later the CD Sampler for Windows 95. In addition to operating Forums, WUGNET also writes and edits CompuServe's biweekly e-zine, "All About CompuServe," for CompuServe North American members.

In 1990, WUGNET introduced one of the first technical newsletters for Windows, The Windows Journal, which was eventually sold to IDG Newsletters in 1995. WUGNET also produced three books with IDG Books Worldwide: "Windows Internet Gizmos"; "Windows 3.1 Connectivity Secrets"; and "Windows 3.1 Configurations Secrets."

Founded in 1969, CompuServe Incorporated provides the world's most comprehensive online/Internet access through its two brands, CompuServe Interactive and SPRYNET. Through CompuServe, its Japanese licensee NIFTY-Serve and its affiliates around the world, more than 5 million home and business users in more than 185 countries are connected online and to the Internet. CompuServe Network Services, a leading network integrator, provides more than 1,200 companies around the world with complete, fully integrated Internet, Intranet, and Extranet connectivity solutions. With world headquarters in Columbus, Ohio, the CompuServe organization includes offices in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

CONTACT: CompuServe

Steve Conway, 614/538-3829

or

WUGNET

Howard Sobel, 610/539-6160