How To Choose an ISP

Here's How:

1. Figure out how much time you plan to spend on the Internet. If you just want email then a free service or an hourly service will be good for you. If you want more you should consider unlimited access.
2. Ask yourself if you want Local or National access. If you travel a lot consider a national provider like AOL. If you don't use Internet when out of town a local provider would probably be better.
3. Ask yourself if you mind ad banners. Free Internet providers take up a small amount of browser space with advertisements.
4. After figuring out your needs go to the ISP section of this site and browse ISPs.
5. Read the FAQs on the sites.
6. Find out how many lines the ISP has, if they have 56 K connectivity (if you have a 56K modem) and how many 56K lines they have.
7. If you want cable modem access, LAN lines, DSL or ethernet find out what services and equipment are required. Find out what extra fees are associated with the services.
8. Ask if you get a free webpage with your account and how many MBs of space are included.
9. Ask about email accounts. Many ISPs offer 2-5 accounts so everyone in your family can have a user name.
10. Sign up. You can always change again if you aren't satisfied with the service.

Tips:

1. Cheaper isn't always better. Some cheap ISPs disconnect often, have only a few lines or have slow connections.
2. Most National ISPs are big and don't give personal customer service. Local ISPs are much better if you don't want to travel with your Internet.
3. Free ISPs are a great option if you travel or just want the Internet to check email. Most of them are national and ads don't interfere with your email accounts.