How to Find an ISP

Call your local phone or cable provider about Internet service options.

Every geographic location has its own set of Internet service providers. Small towns and remote areas generally have fewer choices than urban areas, and in extremely remote areas you may have little or no choice in your ISP. Most current websites are designed for high speed connections rather than dialup, so if you are shopping for an ISP, consider dialup only if your Internet needs are limited to email use and browsing the occasional Web page. Video streaming may not be available over dialup, and activities as simple downloading a photo can take several minutes, compared to a few seconds over a broadband connection.

Instructions

1. Visit the National Broadband Map from a public or friend's computer and enter your address to find broadband service providers in your area. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Communications Commission maintain this map of providers across the US. It does not contain complete information, but it is a good place to start.

2. Call your local phone, cellular and cable service providers. These are the most common sources for Internet service. If you have access to a friend's computer or a public Internet connection, look up these companies online to find out their Internet service offerings.

3. Ask the staff at a local computer repair or sales shop which providers service your area. These professionals should be familiar with the local service providers, as they often sell and repair the equipment you will need to get connected.

4. Contact your real estate agent if you have just moved to the area and ask about local ISPs. Real estate agents often maintain lists of various utility companies to make setting up a new household easier for their clients.

5. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce. Whether you are looking for business or personal Internet, the staff may be able to direct you to ISPs or offer you a resource guide for the area.

6. Contact the ISP services you learn about through these options. Provide each potential ISP with an accurate street address and zip code to find out if their service covers your specific area. Don't rely on general website maps to indicate whether your location will get service.

7. Note the price, speed and contract terms for each company you find, and choose a company based upon this information, rather than simply selecting the first provider you encounter who covers your area.

References

• Business Insider: How to Find the Fastest Internet Connection Near You
• Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce