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The Basics
The basic components that make up an Internet connection are a computer with a browser, a modem or router (to make the connection) and an account with an ISP. ISP's offer a variety of services: basic dial-up, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), cable modems and leased lines are the most popular. Depending upon the type of connection you choose, you will need the appropriate equipment to make that connection. This article will provide a simple explanation of the above services and equipment, and provide some resources to get you started in selecting an Internet connection that fits your needs.
Account Types
In the Internet world, speed is king. The more speed you want the more you must be willing to pay. Basic dial-up connections range from $14.95 to $24.95 per month with most ISP's offering a good solution at $19.95 per month. There are some free dial-up choices, however there are many restrictions placed on these accounts, and you may be forced to visit their advertisers in order to remain connected for any length of time. Dial-up speeds depend upon your modem, and have a maximum of 56k. Local dial-up connections are available for most areas with very few limitations or exceptions.
Faster speeds can be obtained via DSL and cable connections, but are subject to availability. Most cable companies are pursuing an Internet product offering, however it is a slow deployment due to the cable replacements necessary in most areas. DSL, on the other hand, is more accessible and offerings are growing at a rapid pace. Cable access averages around $40 per month and DSL prices average close to $50 per month for basic service (384/128k).
ISDN is worth mentioning, however most ISPs have abandoned the ISDN market. ISDN connections are slower than DSL and cable, and the fee structures included metered charges.
Equipment
For dial-up, you will need a modem connected to a phone line. Most ISPs use 56k v.90 modems to accept dial-up connections. If you plan on buying a modem, it is always wise to choose your ISP first, and ask which modem they would recommend to achieve optimal speeds.
DSL uses a specific modem that runs around $90-$100. Some of the more aggressive DSL providers will give you a modem if you sign a two-year commitment. If you are not comfortable signing for two years, you can purchase the modem up front.
Cable modems are a bit more expensive at $230-$300. Cable companies do offer leasing programs and installation offers, however you may be limited to one cable company in your area with an offering.
For any of the choices above, your computer will need some networking changes to accommodate the new connection. Most ISPs have software that installs and configures your connection for you. Smaller ISPs still rely on the phone and documentation to get their customers up and running.
How to choose an ISP
Price vs. usage is the best place to start. If you are checking e-mail and cruising the web occasionally, dial-up is probably your best solution. You may also live in an area where dial-up is your only solution. If you use the Internet on a daily basis, plan on moving large volumes of data or just feel the "need for speed"; you may want to check into cable or DSL.
After deciding how much speed you need, you will need to select a provider. Most areas have local providers and large, national providers. The choice between a local provider and a large company is always a tough call. Local providers have fewer dial-up locations, normally poor national support, and limited bandwidth. However, you may find that the personalized attention is more to your liking than a series of touch-tone menus. The larger companies normally ship out their software for you to install, while some of the local providers will still come out to your house and set your machine up for you (Note: DSL and cable will require a professional install).
If you have an Internet connection, or have access to one you may want to check out http://www.lightreading.com/. This site offers a list of ISPs by area with a technical evaluation on the major providers. When looking for dial-up be sure to find a provider with a local number to avoid metered charges. Boardwatch lists the area codes and cities where the local ISPs provide service.
If you do not have access to an Internet connection, you may want to start with the phone book to find local providers, call your local phone company or walk into your local computer store to get some numbers to call to begin your quest.
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