Just how does one get started with online play?

I've been playing network for a while, and I want to move into internet
games.

At the (main) game selection screen, select "Internet (tracker search)". Hit the "Refresh" button and a list of games should show up in the box on the left hand side of the window. Select a game that looks nice and hit "Join."

Please read the following link before playing though. It does contain some things you should know.

http://bishop.mc.duke.edu/bolo/guides/longfaq.html#etiquette