Internet service providers (ISPs) are the companies that provide you with access to the Internet. There are a number of different ISPs out there, so it’s important you learn about the different technology available, determine what kind of service is best for you and then compare the costs. Remember, there is no standard price for Internet service. It can vary greatly depending on where you live.

Although some connections may not be available in your area, you will generally have the following options:

• Dial-up

While dial-up service has become obsolete in many areas, there are still many people – especially in rural areas – that rely on this technology to connect to the Internet. If you seldom get online, have no need for wireless access and don’t mind waiting a few minutes to connect and disconnect, then dial-up may not be a bad option. As far as price goes, you won’t find anything cheaper than dial-up. Just keep in mind that dial-up requires an active landline to connect to the Internet.

• DSL and Cable

Digital subscriber line (DSL) has become a common technology used by millions of Americans every day to connect to the Internet. Like dial-up, DSL connects a computer t o the web using the same wires as a regular telephone line. But that’s where the similarities end. Unlike dial-up, DSL provides broadband Internet access – meaning that its technology allows for a high-speed, always-on connection. In turn, DSL service is ideal for those who frequently use the Internet and/or enjoy streaming video, playing games, downloading music, etc. Your DSL modem can also be connected to a wireless router to create a home Wi-Fi network.

Cable, another form of broadband Internet service, is very similar to DSL. Both provide reliable, high-speed Internet and can be connected to a wireless router to expand broadband services at your home. Cable Internet service, however, connects through the same network as cable television. In theory, cable can be up to two times faster than DSL. But since cable technology is based on shared bandwidth, this speed can fluctuate greatly depending on how many subscribers are on the network. A DSL connection is typically steadier because it doesn’t share bandwidth with other users. For this reason, you may want to consider DSL over cable if you live in a densely populated area. On average, DSL and cable service cost about the same, although the latter can be slightly more expensive in some instances.

• Satellite

If you are an avid Internet user and you live in an area where DSL and cable aren’t available, satellite Internet may be your best bet. To connect to the internet via satellite, you’ll need to have a satellite dish installed outside of your home. This dish transmits and receives data from satellites orbiting Earth. While satellite service cannot provide speeds as fast as cable or DSL, it is much faster than dial-up and is available just about everywhere. However, the signal can be affected by the weather and the price is comparable to most DSL and cable connections.