One major factor that affects the views of many non-users is the lack of perceived value or need for the Internet. Cost and other barriers are significant for a number of non-users, particularly those who have used the Internet at some public location and would like access from home. But for many others, lack of interest and lack of perceived need are of greater importance as reasons for not having home access. The lack of a home computer is also a major reason why both Internet users and non-users do not have home access. The lack of a home computer can be the result of affordability barriers or again a lack of interest.

In terms of expectations for the future use of the Internet, non-users are fairly evenly split into two groups. Asked if they agree or disagree with the statement that at some point they are sure they will have to start using the Internet, a slightly larger number (45 per cent) agreed than disagreed (40 per cent). Non-users are more divided about whether they have any interest in using the Internet. Almost half (48 per cent) had no interest, while about one in three (34 per cent) had interest in using. While lack of interest is a strong factor, there is some acknowledgement by the more ardent non-users they will have to use the Internet at some point. Disinterest about the Internet also carries over to levels of awareness about existing public opportunities to learn about or use the Internet, or the fact that, for many, local opportunities for Internet access do not yet exist.