An ISP provides internet connectivity for a monthly fee, with different fees for different types of service. Dial-up is slower and cheaper, while DSL and cable offer faster speeds. ISPs have different contracts and policies, so it’s important to read carefully before signing up. There are many options available to suit different needs and budgets.
An Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides Internet connectivity to your home or workplace. This normally involves a monthly fee, which in some cases is prepaid for up to a year or more to earn discounts. Internet service providers charge different fees depending on the type of Internet service they offer and the tier purchased.
For example, an ISP that sells dial-up services offers modest data rates of up to 56 kilobits per second. Typically, this service includes one or more email accounts and limited or unlimited use of the Internet. Limited use is calculated on an hourly basis, but the most common type of account provides “unlimited” hours, even if this is assumed to be intermittent use. A dial-up account can cost up to 6 US dollars (USD) per month.
For better speed and an “always on” connection, look for an Internet service provider that offers digital subscriber line (DSL) accounts. ADSL uses the telephone line already installed in your home or business, but unlike dial-up, it can share the line with telephone service. When using the telephone line, the telephone line rings busy. When using DSL, your phone can be used to make and receive calls, even when connected to the Internet.
Today, an Internet service provider can offer DSL at prices comparable to what dial-up cost in the 1990s. As of spring 2006, at least two major DSL Internet service providers are offering a new service for just $12.95 a month. This includes speeds of up to 100 megabits per second. Higher speeds or higher tiers are also available for an additional cost.
Another option is to get an internet service provider that offers wired internet connectivity. Cable service is about equal to DSL in terms of speed, but does not use telephone lines. Instead, Internet data is routed over the same coaxial cable that carries the television signal. There is a lot of bandwidth on coaxial cable to carry various signals without interference, so this provides a clean solution. Cable Internet service is generally more expensive than DSL service, but some companies offer TV, Internet, and phone service in a bundle that can save some consumers money.
Every Internet Service Provider should have a Terms of Service (TOS) agreement and a Privacy Policy. Both contracts should be read carefully before signing up with an ISP. Some Internet service providers require a term contract, while others are monthly.
Some ISPs restrict home page content, while others allow a commercial website. Some limit the number of email accounts available with each account, while others offer unlimited email accounts. The cancellation and refund policies will also be included in the TOS. How personal information is handled should be detailed in the Privacy Policy.
With so many ISPs available, there is a package to suit every need and budget. DSL and cable service may not be available in all areas, but a search engine can get you started in the right direction in finding the perfect Internet service provider for your needs.
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