Dialup:
Dialup Internet access provides for a connection to the Internet by using a modem to place what is usually a local telephone call to the ISP. Access to Internet services is then granted only after an authentication procedure, which usually involves typing in a name and password. This is the most common form of consumer Internet connectivity. It is the slowest and least expensive. Dialup is not recommended for businesses.

ISDN:
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) Internet access provides for connection to the Internet by using a special digital modem and telephone line to place a high-speed call to the ISP. Access to Internet services is then granted only after an authentication procedure, which usually involves typing in a name and password. ISDN is roughly three times faster than basic dialup and usually requires the installation of a special telephone line. Installation costs vary depending on the service provider but generally start at around $50.00 to 100.00 for a one time setup charge. Monthly fees can range from $25.00 for a Single Channel ISDN to $40.00 for a Dual Channel ISDN. Both single and double Channel options usually include unlimited access. ISDN should only be considered if Cable and DSL access is unavailable.

Cable:
Cable Internet access provides for a connection to the Internet that can be over 10 times faster than using Dialup. Cable provides a persistent connection to the Internet. Because it is always connected, Cable does not require telephone dialing or password entry to use. Cable access requires the physical installation of the Cable Television cable. Installation costs are around $100.00 with unlimited usage for a monthly fee of under $50.00. Unlike DSL, Cable is shared among multiple people within the same neighborhood. Therefore, the connection speed is variable depending upon the number of subscribers accessing the same neighborhood cluster simultaneously for Internet access.

DSL:
Digital Subscriber Line Internet access provides for connection to the Internet that can be up to 10 times faster than using Dialup. DSL provides a persistent connection to the Internet. Because it is always connected, DSL does not require telephone dialing or password entry to use. DSL is piggybacked on an existing telephone line and does not require installation of a second phone line. Installation costs ranges from around $100.00 for a basic DSL with unlimited usage to $450.00 for a business DSL service. Monthly service fees start at just under $50.00 per month for basic service to $450.00 for a business line. DSL access is generally preferred to Cable because the line is not shared with other subscribers.