How Can I Compare Internet Service Providers?

Not all Internet services are available in all areas. While dialup is available wherever there is a phone, and satellite service covers almost everywhere that has a clear view of the sky, other types of services are more common in urban areas than rural ones. Fiber-optic high-speed Internet, the fastest and latest technology, is available in only a few select areas. Cable access has been quickly expanding and tends to be available wherever a given cable company offers its television services. Find out which services offer availability in your home or business and how long they have been providing service to your area.

Speed is one of the major factors for some users. Home users who use the Internet only for emails and basic Web surfing can settle for a less expensive service or options such as dialup. Gamers, people involved in real-time trades and people with high graphic or music download needs will want faster service. Create a chart and compare the download speeds, typically expressed in kilobytes per second -- Kbps -- or megabytes per second -- Mbps. Generally speaking, the service speeds are from slowest to fastest: dial-up, DSL, satellite, wireless, cable and fiber optics.

Different types of Internet service require different types of equipment, and you will want to make sure the equipment is compatible with the computer that you use. You will also need to find out whether you must purchase the equipment or whether it is included with the service. Dial-up and DSL typically require a phone line, modem and an ethernet link. Satellite service requires a satellite dish, a satellite modem box, cable linkings and mounting hardware. Wireless service requires a receiver, sometimes a satellite antenna installed on your roof and a mobile broadband device.

Make a list of the "extras" that each Internet service provides or expects you to have. For example, satellite services typically expect you to sign a 24-month contract while some dial-ups will have contracts for as short as 30 days. Many Internet service providers also provide security software suites, personal Web space and email addresses. You may also wish to test the companies' customer service support lines before you make a commitment. Call them and see how long it takes to reach a live person who can answer your questions. If you are interested in more than just Internet service, evaluate the bundled services each provider offers. Some will bundle your Internet with phone and television services.