How to Activate Internet Service

People can enjoy the internet at home by using a service plan

Accessing the internet at home requires a subscription to an internet service plan. The service plan grants a predetermined data speed to users on a monthly basis. With the plan, authorized users can visit websites, stream music, download multimedia content, and watch online videos. Contact an internet service provider to begin using the internet in your home.

Things You'll Need

• Personal computer
• Internet Service plan

Instructions

1. Contact an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An ISP is a company that provides access to the internet for a home. Using a variety of technologies such as DSL, broadband, cable or dial-up, the service provider will connect your computer to the internet. Schedule a meeting with a local ISP to discuss plans and services. Most internet service providers are listed in phone books and yellow pages, and are accessible by calling their number.

2. Choose an Internet Service Provider and a plan that's right for your budget and expected usage. Most internet service plans vary in internet data speeds. Speed determines how fast media will download and how fast a web page will render. A basic service plan, for example, will typically feature a data speed at 1 Mbps and lower, and are priced low. Elite plans will have data speeds at 5 Mbps or higher -- but are more expensive. Select the provider and plan that works best for you.

3. Allow the ISP to install the internet package. After choosing a plan, the service provider will schedule an appointment for a technician to visit and install the required hardware. Permit access to the computer and any telephone or ethernet ports, so the technician can install cables, DSL or broadband boxes, or any other machines needed to access the internet. Upon installation, the technician will provide additional instructions to new internet users, if needed. If you selected a dial-up plan, you can install the internet service yourself using a few steps. Simply insert a telephone cord into its wall outlet and the back of the computer (using the telephone port next to the ethernet port) and follow your new service's instructions..

4. Connect to the internet. Select your web browser -- Internet Explorer, Firefox or Safari, to name just three -- by double clicking on its icon from the desktop. If no icon exists, select the internet program from the applications listed in Microsoft Window's "All Programs."

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a laptop, you can access the internet in many public establishments such as a restaurant, library or school. Access your wireless network settings to display a list of available connections to the internet. Click one entitled "Public access," "Free Wi-Fi" or one that has the establishment's name listed somewhere.

References

• CGI: Hooking Up To The Internet