Choosing an Internet Service Provider (ISP), the company that provides you with your Internet connection, can be an overwhelming process. First, you need to decide if you are interested in dial-up, DSL, or cable access service. Then, you need to determine which services are available in your area and which one best meet your needs. Each ISP will offer different prices and service packages, therefore it is important that you understand what they are selling you. Otherwise, how else will you effectively compare one company's service package and pricing to another?

As you research your options and compare companies and services, you will want to consider asking the following questions to ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

• Speed: How fast do you need your Internet service to be and does the ISP you're considering provide that speed of service? Check the upload and download bandwidth that each service offers.



• Price: What is the monthly fee and what do you receive for that amount? Are there installation costs? Keep in mind that many companies will offer promotional rates that they will discontinue after a period of time. Determine what the rate will be after they discontinue the special pricing.
  
  If the company has multiple packages, how do they compare? Often, companies will try to sell you the most expensive option when a lower-priced plan may meet your needs. Ask the customer service agent from each company to explain the differences between their various plans.



• Billing: It is important that you understand your ISP's billing process. If you have a particular way you like to handle your monthly bills, the ISP’s billing process may interest you. How will you be billed? Is your credit card charged automatically each month and will you be able to manage your account online? Can you receive paper invoices? You need to ask all of these questions so you understand how your financial data will be managed.



• Installation Software: Does the ISP require special installation software? Do they have a Mac version for Mac users? If the software isn’t installed correctly, what happens?



• Physical Service: Does the company provide its service over its own physical lines or do they "partner" with another company and use theirs? Sometimes two different companies offer a similar service and use the same physical Internet access routes. This means that your speed and consistency of service would be the same, and that you can choose the company that offers the best options in terms of price, technical support, and extra features.



• Consistency: It is important to choose an ISP that offers consistent service. Obviously, this isn’t information a company wants to provide, so you’ll need to rely on friends, neighbors, and Internet review sites for this information. These sources will be able to tell you if service is typically slower during certain times of the day, or if there are frequent service interruptions.



• Extras: Most ISPs will offer free email accounts and web space. Find out how many email accounts you will receive and how much storage there is in each of those accounts. If you receive web space, how much space do they give you? When you compare services, you’ll want to make sure you have all of these details so you can make an informed decision.



• Technical Support: Does the company have technical support? They should. Don’t choose a provider that does not have accessible technical support. What are their hours of operation? How can you reach them? Choose a company that is at least accessible by email and phone.



• Remote Access: If you travel, can you access your email account while you are away?



• Contract: Choose an ISP that offers contract terms that you are comfortable with. What is the period of time you must agree to be a customer? Can you terminate the service without penalty?

Remember, you want to get the best value for your money, while choosing a service that meets your needs. Consider all the ISPs in your area and price point, and ask all the questions you need so that you can compare the different services and options. Be a smart shopper and you’ll be surfing the web with the help of your ISP in no time!