Computer Bytes - No. 2 ISP is the acronym for Information Service Provider. An Information Service Provider is the methodology for connecting a computer to the Internet. This can be done in several ways depending on needs and budget. The best way to find a local ISP is by asking friends, neighbors or business associates what they are using and if they are satisfied with their service. In most cities, you have the availability of a DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connection. This technology provides digital data transmission over local telephone network wires. This translates to faster access to the Internet including sending and receiving of e-mail, web surfing, up-loading or down-loading information. A cable connection offers about the same speed as a DSL but may have limited availability. Dial-up connection box Setting up Internet Options In most cases there are typically 3 services that are readily available for connecting to the Internet. They are standard dial-up connection, cable or connecting via satellite. The dial-up connection uses your existing telephone line which connects through a modem in your computer. This method is comparatively slow. Neither the cable nor the satellite connection uses a phone line but does require special equipment which may mean additional initial costs. The main difference between dial-up and satellite or cable is the speed of accessing the Internet. A satellite or cable connection will typically be 30 times faster than dial-up! Check with your local Internet providers to see which of these services they offer and which one best fits your needs and budget. Moncrief Web2 Home Page Moncrief Web Design Computer Bytes Index Web Design | Search Engine Optimization | Site Maintenance & Management | Request Information | About Us ~ Sample Sites Send Us an Email | Web2 Home Page | Web Design Home Page Copyright 2007 MWD. All rights reserved. Computer Bytes articles may not be reprinted, published, quoted, copied, or used in any manner whatsoever without the expressed written permission of David Moncrief.