Free utility extends AltaVista search powers on the Web and beyond

HOUSTON -- Exploring and finding information anywhere on the Internet and the personal computer just got faster and easier with AltaVista Discovery, a new extension of Compaq Computer Corporation's (NYSE: CPQ) AltaVista Search site ( http://altavista.digital.com ) that brings unique search powers to all types and levels of users. With AltaVista Discovery, AltaVista becomes the first major online service to offer a single solution that extends the Web to the desktop, connecting users to information wherever it may reside. For the first time, users can now search more than 100 document and file types, including the Internet and e-mail without changing applications. AltaVista Discovery also empowers users with many helpful administrative tools such as natural language processing, instant highlighting, page summaries, and automatic updating.

"AltaVista Discovery is all about connecting people to knowledge and information," said Bob Hult, Vice President and General Manager of Compaq's AltaVista Search Site. "AltaVista set the standards for Web searching, from first indexing the entire Internet, to instant language translation capabilities to the first World Index. With AltaVista Discovery, we are continuing to build on our strong search foundation while extending AltaVista's leadership as a premier information resource."

AltaVista Discovery holds enormous appeal for all types of users: from frequent searchers who will benefit from one-click access to AltaVista search from anywhere on the Web, to experienced surfers seeking large amounts of information to maximize productivity and time savings. It is loaded with many easy-to-use functions that can enhance a user's search experience, including:

• Highlights key words within a page - AltaVista Discovery highlights the key search words within the actual Web page, providing instant access and targeted reading.
• Summarizes page content - Too much information to digest at once? AltaVista Discovery instantly summarizes the contents of a Web page for improved browsing of information.
• Finds similar pages - With the click of a mouse, users can find pages similar to the contents of the Web page viewed.
• Shows what sites point to a page - AltaVista Discovery can identify Web sites that refer to a particular page and offer a comprehensive list of other connected sites with relevant information.
• Shows other pages from the same site - With a single click, AltaVista Discovery delivers a complete listing of all pages from the same site as the page viewed.

How AltaVista Discovery Works A customizable toolbar attaches itself to the browser, providing one-touch access to the AltaVista Search Service from anywhere on the Internet. Users can access their computer's information at anytime by simply changing the desired search location with a single click. For example, a user can search the Web and then switch to look at e-mail or documents on their computer which contain the same selected search term. Users also can personalize their selections using the options menu for greater flexibility. AltaVista Discovery utilizes leading Internet technologies from Compaq and from partners, enhancing the user's total Internet experience. They include application distribution and management technology by Marimba, Inc. ( http://www.marimba.com ); summarization technology provided by Inxight Software, Inc. ( http://www.inxight.com ); filtering technology by Inso Corp. ( http://www.inso.com ); and natural language processing technology from Teragram Corp. ( http://www.teragram.com ).

Availability AltaVista Discovery will be distributed for FREE as an extension of Compaq's public AltaVista Search site. The gold version is now available for downloading at http://altavista.digital.com.

About AltaVista Search Compaq's fast and powerful AltaVista Search Service is the premier resource for locating information on the Internet. A forerunner in Web search technology, AltaVista has set new standards, from indexing the entire Internet to providing the Web's first instant language translation capabilities. With an extensive line-up of innovative content and services, AltaVista is now regarded as one of the top destination sites on the Web. For more information, visit AltaVista's flagship site located at ( http://www.altavista.digital.com ).

Company Background Founded in 1982, Compaq Computer Corporation is a Fortune Global 200 company. Compaq is the second largest computer in the world and the largest global supplier of personal computers. Compaq develops and markets hardware, software, solutions and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, networking and communication products, commercial desktop and portable products and consumer PCs. The company is an industry leader in environmentally friendly programs and business practices. Compaq products are sold and supported in more than 100 countries through a network of authorized Compaq marketing partners. Customer support and information about Compaq and its products are on the World Wide Web at ( http://www.compaq.com ) and are available by calling 1-800-OK-COMPAQ. Product information and reseller locations are available by calling 1-800-345-1518. Compaq, Registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.