Facebook: The Missing Manual, 3rd Edition

Chapter 2. Getting Started

Google, the iPod, spam: Only a handful of technological forces have gone from tiny to towering seemingly overnight, and Facebook is part of this elite group. There’s one big reason: Setting up a Facebook account couldn’t be easier. In the time it takes to say “howdy,” you too can be part of the frenzy.

Then—if you like—you can fill out an optional Facebook profile, a series of questions regarding your likes, dislikes, educational and professional background, and so on. You can even include photos of yourself. The more accurately and completely you describe yourself to Facebook, the more useful you’ll find the site. (After all, headhunters and old college buddies can’t find you if you fake your information.) This chapter shows you how to sign up for an account, fill out your profile, and get to your personalized Facebook Home page.

Tip

Of course, the more info you give Facebook, the greater the risk that someone will steal or misuse that information. See Chapter 14 for ways to get the most out of Facebook while minimizing your risk.

Signing Up for an Account

Facebook accounts are free, and have only two requirements: You need a working email address, and you have to be over 13 years old. Here’s how to sign up:

1. Point your web browser to www.facebook.com. If you’re on a Windows computer, you’ll get the best results with Internet Explorer or Firefox. If you’re on a Mac, use Firefox or Safari. (If you’re not familiar with Firefox [it’s free], check out www.firefox.com ...