An Internet service provider (abbr. ISP, also called Internet access provider or IAP) is a business or organization that provides to consumers access to the Internet and related services. In the past, most ISPs were run by the phone companies. Now, ISPs can be started by just about any individual or group with sufficient money and expertise. In addition to Internet access via various technologies such as dial-up and DSL, they may provide a combination of services including Internet transit, domain name registration and hosting, web hosting, and colocation.
ISP connection options
ISPs employ a range of technologies to enable consumers to connect to their network. For home users, the most popular options include dial-up, DSL (typically ADSL), Broadband wireless access, Cable modem, and...