IDC Predicts New Year's Hangover for Net

Market research firm International Data Corporation says Internet "intoxication" will shift into "hangover" mode in 1996 and at least two leading online service providers may dry out completely.

IDC analysts expect more people to sign up for online services, but say turnover will be high due to a lack of compelling content. At least 20 percent of Fortune 500 companies with Web sites will stop maintaining them, according to IDC officials.

IDC does have good news for consumers, however. Analysts predict competition to drive down the monthly cost of online services as much as 75 percent.