Abstract: A system and method for viewing visual information about one or more web sites that are related or similar to the web site that is currently being displayed, for example with a web browser or other software interface. The system and method assist the user to access related web sites and also may optionally expand the knowledge of the user in regard to a subject of interest that is being displayed through the web site. The related web sites are shown as links within a user interface, which may optionally be placed at either side, above or below the web page being displayed, or indeed at any other location. Each link is accompanied by a thumbnail image of the page to which it links. The link may optionally be embedded within the thumbnail or alternatively may be displayed separately from the thumbnail image. The links and the thumbnail images are preferably displayed on a special toolbar.