Consumers often misunderstand the nature of their online access and the technology that allows them to visit websites and retrieve email. In most cases, they pay a monthly fee to a dial-up, DSL, or cable company, and enjoy surfing the web without investigating the manner in which they’re able to do so. Internet service providers give their subscribers the ability to connect online. But, to truly appreciate how they can provide this ability, it’s important to understand how the net works.

Below, we’ll explain what your ISP does in the context of the role it plays within the internet’s expansive hierarchy of networked computers. We’ll describe the manner in which data flows throughout this network. We’ll also offer a few helpful tips that you can use to find a dependable ISP that meets your online surfing needs.

Hierarchy Of Networked Computers

Most people think of the world wide web as an ambiguous cloud of information mysteriously traversing the globe. They know that typing a website’s address into their browser will result in their being able to see the associated site. They also understand that if they send an email, it will reach its destination almost immediately. However, they don’t know the role their ISP plays in making these transfers of data possible.

The most accurate way to think of the net – and your internet service provider’s place within it – is to picture a group of networked computers. Each machine in the group can communicate with each other. Now, imagine a second group that is completely separate from the first group. Like the first group, every computer in the second group can communicate with each other. The problem is that communication cannot happen between the two networks.

In order for computers within different networks to talk to each other, the ISPs that each machine is connected to must establish a connection through Network Access Points (NAPs). This is how millions of people around the world enjoy surfing the web: their respective internet service providers connect to each other through NAPs.

How To Find A Reliable ISP?

There are many types of internet service providers. The service you choose should depend on your web surfing habits, budget, and the speed and bandwidth you’re willing to pay for. A dial-up provider is less expensive than other options (i.e. cable and DSL), but access speed will be severely limited. On the other hand, a cable or DSL connection offers much faster throughput, but at a higher cost.

Also, keep in mind that broadband coverage is become more widespread. As this happens, more websites are integrating technologies and features that require high-speed access. That trend is likely to continue, which is why most consumers are avoiding dial-up and opting for cable or DSL access. It’s worth nothing that DSL, when available, tends to be faster than an overloaded cable network. This is because cable connections are shared; the greater number of subscribers, the slow the data stream for each person.

Your ISP plays a key role in your enjoying a seamless internet surfing experience. Consider your online needs and budget to choose a provider that meets your preferences.

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Category: Internet
Keywords: internet service provider, ISP, how things work, how to