Listing the benefits of the facility, Hariharan said apart from getting instant access, the subscriber would pay according to usage without the fear of lapse of registration due to time limits. There is no need for initial lump sum payment for hundred hours etc.

For the internet user, browsing time is unlimited with secured accesses. However, the subscriber cannot have direct e-mail address as to get these services he will have to avail of other free services offered by agencies like Yahoo and Hotmail. Customerswithout STD facility can also apply. The facility would be activated and the customer would be duly informed by the respective exchange in charge.

When asked how the system works, Hariharan said the customer would need to dial 172 223 and the node at Madurai would permit internet access without authentication.

As per the existing arrangement, customers requiring internet access have to submit their request on a prescribed application from with registration payment and access fee depending on the plan they choose.When the duration as per his chosen plan expires he would have to renew his registration by paying the requisite fee for the chosen plan.The existing arrangement requires the customer to visit the customer centre for renewal. Apart from the subscription for the chosen plan, his telephone number is also metered at local call rate.He said many other secondary switching areas were willing to introduce the `easy internet system' and have sought details from the Madurai telecom.

The Department ofTelecom has allowed Madurai to start the facility, which would be metered at one unit for every ninety seconds. The rate is comparable to that charged for the existing internet facility.