How ISPs Work
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Internet service providers, or ISPs, are the entities that offer different types of connections to allow a personal or business computer to access the Internet. A modem connects a personal computer to the ISP utilizing cable wires or telephone lines. Once the computer modem receives the signal that the computer wants access to the Internet, it sends the signal to the ISP. The networks usually communicate with a Point-to-Point Protocol, which is simply a protocol for transporting Internet Protocol (IP) traffic (see Reference). Once connected, the ISP will confirm that access is allowed and provide Internet connectivity.
Dial-Up
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Dial-up is one of the most inexpensive forms of connecting to the Internet. Dial-up uses the telephone lines to connect a computer to an ISP via a modem, which translates data on both ends. Once a user subscribes to an ISP, the ISP will provide the dial-up number and information on loading any necessary software onto the computer. A user with a dial-up connection cannot use the phone line while connected to the Internet, since the data travels over the voice portion of the telephone line. In addition, dial-up is slower than broadband, and users may find service interrupted when the dial-up number is busy.
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Broadband
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Broadband is the term used for a high-speed Internet connection. ISPs commonly offer cable or digital subscriber line (DSL) connections to residential subscribers. DSL uses traditional phone lines to transmit signals and requires a DSL modem, but transfers the data across unused portions of the line. This allows for a faster data transfer rate, and the ability to use the telephone and the Internet simultaneously.
Cable services provide Internet access to customers through the same cable lines that supply television signals. Using a modem, the ISP connects customers to the servers located at the cable company. Cable Internet access provides bandwidth and speed similar to a DSL connection.
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