What do I need to connect to the Internet?You need an Internet service provider (ISP) and some hardware to connect to the Internet: | • | ISP. An ISP provides access to the Internet. You sign up for an account with an ISP just as you do for telephone service or utilities. | | • | Hardware. For a broadband connection such as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) or cable, you need a DSL or cable modem. This is usually included as part of the start-up hardware from your ISP when you sign up for a broadband account. For a dial-up connection, you need a dial-up modem. Many computers come with this type of modem already installed. |
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) __elbasuer__ Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
A type of high-speed Internet connection using standard telephone wires. This is also referred to as a broadband connection.
Broadband connection __elbasuer__ Broadband connection
A high-speed Internet connection. Broadband connections are typically 256 kilobytes per second (KBps) or faster. Broadband includes DSL and cable modem service.
Modem
A device that allows computer information to be transmitted and received over a telephone line or through broadband services such as cable or DSL. Modems are most commonly used to connect to the Internet.
Internet service provider (ISP) __elbasuer__ Internet service provider (ISP)
A company that provides Internet access to individuals or companies. An ISP provides a telephone number, a user name, a password, and other connection information so that users can access the Internet through the ISP's computers. An ISP typically charges a monthly or hourly connection fee.
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