It takes a bit of work to get your computer connected to the Internet correctly and working safely. You need first to find the Internet Service Provider(s) (or ISP) in your town. This is your connection to the Internet through a phone line, cable TV line, a satellite dish, or even cell phone towers. Think of an ISP as a portal to the Internet and they charge a certain amount each month for that access. It should also provide you with an e-mail address, a personal domain name (for setting up a website), and online support.
Fees associate with an ISP will be a set-up fee, a monthly fee for Internet access, and perhaps a contract (paying for a certain amount of time).
ISP Options
To find an ISP, look in the Yellow Pages under the word Internet, or search the Internet if you have access elsewhere. Here are your most common options:
- ISP Specific Providers- think AOL or Earthlink. Usually, you can either call a local phone number or sign up online to have them send you software to connect to the internet through their services.
- Cable and Phone Companies- Most local phone or media companies (e.g. Qwest or Comcast) offer an ISP with use of their phone line. Check the yellow pages to find your local phone company and prices.
- Your School or University’s ISP- Usually you will have access to the Internet through your school or university. If the campus or classrooms are not wireless, the Internet is usually available in computer labs or the library.
Modes of Connection
- Telephone Modem: Connects through the telephone line. This is also called “dial-up,” and is the slowest connection. A 56k telephone modem transmits data at the speed of 56 kilobits per second (kbps). This system uses your telephone line, so you cannot use that phone line when you’re online. It is the least expensive option.
- DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): Allows access through a high-speed digital phone line. Every phone line has four wires and your phone only uses two of them. A DSL line uses the other two lines allowing you to still use your phone line while accessing the Internet . Prices will vary depending on the speed of access.
- Cable Modem: Allows access through the TV cable line that runs into your house. It receives information up to 100 times faster than a modem. You have to have cable to get a cable modem, and many companies try to “bundle” the Internet with actual cable and even phone, but it is consistently fast.
- Fiber Optic: Available in few places, usually very large urban areas on either coast, this is the fastest mode of internet currently available, and the price reflects this.
- Satellite: This is a good option for remotely located homes. Internet is beamed into a satellite dish attached to your house. Price varies depending on speed of internet and can be more expensive because of the cost of the dish.
- Mobile Phone Carriers: A new technology is to access the internet through the cell towers that provide your cell phone with service. This requires buying a component at the carrier providers store and signing up. A major plus is the mobility it provides: anywhere you get a cell signal, you can get Internet. Speeds vary depending on signal and the price is high.
- Another Option: There are some neighborhoods which allow you to connect to the Internet through a non-connected phone line. You have to call your local phone company and give them your address to see if you have this option. Doing so will save you the hassle and cost of having to install a phone line in order to get your internet.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Internet Access
DSL, Cable, Fiber Optic and Satellite are all considered high-speed Internet connections. The advantage of high-speed is that you can access the Internet twenty-four hours a day, and don’t have to wait for a free phone line or tying yours up. You also can use the phone and be connected to the Internet at the same time.
Unfortunately, high-speed does have its disadvantages. It is more expensive than a dial-up connection. Also, you are constantly connected to the Internet with a greater possibility that someone can access your computer unauthorized and take information from your computer.