By now most people have heard of Friendster, a website ostensibly a singles service, but in reality a great online time-waster with a number of uses. Users of the service create “profiles,” and are connected to their friends who also have profiles, allowing users to meet new people through an extended social network. There are other, similar services out there, and one with more capabilities and growing rapidly is called “orkut.” It supports all the features of Friendster, but also allows for more online discussion, and is intended to be used not simply to meet people but for professional networking as well. The catch? It’s by invitation only – so ask around to see if any of your techy friends are on the service, as any current member can send you an invitation.