It is fast becoming a necessity for those of us who live far from any cities. Much of our shopping is done online. I also need it for current weather reports as there are no local forecasts, but I can go on line and look at the satellite images of the weather conditions in the 4 state region, get a rough idea if any storms are heading this way. Also it is very good for finding prayers online on the days we can not get to the Masjid. Not quite as good as being in the Masjid, but much better than not having it. Up here in the winter time it is nearly the only contact we have with the outside world for 6 months.