Internet Service Provider
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are companies that provide various Internet services to interested customers. Usually, ISPs provide either business or individual Internet access packaged with telephone, television, email accounts and personal, customizable web pages.
Overview
ISPs provide Internet connectivity to homes and workplaces on a contractual basis. The beneficiary (either an individual person or an organization) pays a monthly fee, although there is often the possibility of a one-year advanced payment at a discount. [1]
ISPs support various forms of Internet access, such as traditional modem dial-up up, DSL, cable modem broadband services, fiber and dedicated T1/T3 lines. WISPs offer Internet access by means of wireless LAN or wireless broadband networks.[2]
ISP Services
In the past, some of the best ISP services were DSL and dial-up services. In the case of DSL, if the beneficiary was looking for more speed and a better Internet connection, then the DSL (digital subscriber line) accounts would have been a great alternative a few years ago. As compared to the dial-up, DSL does not use the home phone line so that the telephone can be used anytime without presenting a conflict for the user. If one was looking for higher tiers or faster Internet speed, plenty of solutions offered by ISPs for an additional cost could have been added. This is also valid today - based on the customer need, additional ISP services can be added for additional costs.
Another ISP solution is known as "cable Internet connectivity" option which in comparison with the DSL does not use the telephone. The Internet data is routed on the same cable which brings a signal to the TV. The Internet connectivity works well because there is enough bandwidth to carry out signals without any problems. The costs for a cable Internet connectivity are higher as compared to DSL, but the user can also enjoy a package which offers both Internet connectivity and cable. [3]
Today's ISP services
Currently, there is more to offer than the classic DSL, dial-up or cable Internet connectivity. There are ISP services relate to web hosting, web development, Internet access services and e-mail services. These services are often bundled together in different ISP packages where the routing equipment is already included in the price of the package itself.[4]
When researching premium bundles it is helpful to research the space offered, pipeline size, virtual hosting, e-mail aliases, and support ensured by the ISP provider.[5]
Fiber optic connectivity is slowly becoming an option in chosen cities throughout the United States. Google has taken the initiative on implementation. Cities that now have fiber options include Atlanta, Georgia; Austin, Texas; Kansas City, Missouri; Nashville, Tennessee; Provo, Utah; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; Salt Lake City, Utah. [6]
ISP packages
Depending on the ISP you choose as well as on the ISP package you decide to use, you could use a server-based sign-up process to use the Internet, a custom package with client-based sign-up process as well as other methods.
In the case of a custom package with a client-based sign-up process, the ISP will also provide all necessary tools for the user to use the Internet. In this way, the user will have to install the configuration file and when signing in the user provides a username along with a password and connection information. The configuration file will then connect the user to the Internet by means of customized browser.[7]
When deciding upon an ISP package, the following aspects should be taken into consideration:
- Price of ISP package
- Bandwidth
- Internet coverage
- Internet access
- Technical support
- Additional services such as space from personal page development, multiple email addresses, etc. [8]