Benefits of Internet Access

Though the Internet has been around for many years, some people still do not use Internet service very often. If you are asking your self if you should get home Internet service, consider these benefits of Internet access.

Communication

You can communicate with friends, family members and businesses through email. Email is obviously much quicker than actually writing a letter and sending it through the mail. You can instantly send letters, notes, photos, videos and audio through email.

Research

If you are furthering your education, researching for work or just curious about new ideas and information, you will find an endless supply of information on nearly every subject on the Internet.

Networking

You can join message boards, social networks and business groups where you can interact online with people who have your same interests from around the world.

Online Shopping

One of the big conveniences of using the Internet is online shopping. You no longer have to go to the store to shop. From groceries to cars, you can shop in the comfort of your own home without the pressure or influence of salesmen. You can research completely before you make major purchases and make small purchases almost instantly.

Much More

You can use the Internet for a multitude of other things from promoting your own business to playing online games. If you currently do not have Internet access at home, you can try it out at a very low cost and decide if it's worth your while.

Choosing Dial-Up Internet Service

Dial-up Internet service is the most affordable choice of any type of Internet service. This option may be ideal for families on a budget, seniors and others who do not use the Internet very often.Because it's cheaper than other Internet services, dial-up is also not as functional. The speed is considerably slower than cable, DSL or satellite Internet service. The major lag is in how long dial up takes to connect to the Internet. Depending on your connection, it could take anywhere from 20 seconds to several minutes.

Also, because dial-up uses a telephone line, you may need to have a separate line for your Internet service. In the past, if you used your normal phone line and were on the Internet, you would be disconnected if a telephone call came in.In recent years, many dial-up Internet service providers have offered features that allow you to stay on the Internet and be alerted when someone is trying to call you.Another problem with dial-up is that the connection can be dropped while you are browsing the Internet.

This can become very frustrating if you are doing research or are in the middle of a project.

Making a Decision Between Cable and DSL

How do I choose between cable and DSL?

If you move into a new neighborhood or are upgrading from dial-up, you may find yourself choosing between cable and DSL Internet service. In many areas, cable and DSL are relatively the same speed and same price. In order to make a decision between cable and DSL, there are several things you should consider.

What's Available

First and foremost, find out what the cable and DSL options are in your neighborhood. Oftentimes if you are too far from the company office, you will not even be able to get DSL. If you have the option of both cable and DSL, you will need to continue your research.

Ask Your Neighbors

The best source of information is people in your neighborhood who already are using the service. Find out if they are happy with the customer service, speed and cost of their Internet service.

Compare Prices

The decision may just come down to which service will be cheaper. Call each company and ask about their monthly rates. Be sure to inquire about any promotional deals and Internet packages that may lower the cost. Don't forget about possible installation charges. Mention on the phone that you are trying to decide between different ISPs. That may prompt the company to give you a discount if you sign up with them.

Contract Terms

Many providers will want you to sign a one-year contract, while others will let you use their service on a month-to-month basis. Also, ask about the cancellation process and any fees involved. Read the contract very carefully before agreeing to terms.