Getting connected to the internet is extremely easy and fairly inexpensive. To begin with, you must have a modem or connecting device. This provides you the link to the internet. Then you need to arrange an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

An Internet Service Provider acts as a gateway to the internet, allowing you to browse the World Wide Web and send and receive email. Most service providers will also store any Web pages you have created, making them available to other users of the Internet.

ISPs range from large organizations, such as CompuServe, Microsoft's MSN service and America On-Line, to small, independent operations that might only serve the area in which you live. Finding an ISP to suit your needs is an important aspect of getting online.

The term ISP is used to describe all the companies that provide you with access to the Internet. However, these companies offer different levels of service.

Internet Access Providers (IAP) offer a very basic package. These companies give you a connection and Web browsing software, such as Internet Explorer, and an email program, and provide technical help over the telephone. An example of an IAP is Earthlink.

Online Service Providers (OSP), like IAP, provide a gateway to the internet and email handling. They differ in that they offer an extra level of service or content including special news, information and entertainment channels, shopping services. OSPs often have a home page designed to make using the internet accessible to newcomers. AOL (America On-Line) is one of the best known OSPs.




Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colon_Bolden