7. Internet Service Providers

1.The ISP!

Before you can access the internet you need to have an agreement with an internet service provider (ISP).

To access the internet, you have to log on to your ISP's computer that then links you to the rest of the Internet.

Your ISP helps your browser find web pages, gives access to web based email by storing and forwarding data to your computer, and provides access to newsgroups and chat rooms.

Some ISP's give you space on their servers to store your own web pages.

You pay a monthly service charge for the ISP's services, and in many cases, the telephone charges as well, though this varies according to the ISP.

 

2. Choosing between ISP's ?

The following features vary from ISP to ISP. Each ISP has different deals and it is worth looking around before taking out a contract.

• How much they charge
• How reliable the service is. some are more reliable than others. some experience regular technical difficulties and either slow down their service or suspend it because their go down or because it needs maintenance.
• How long you can stay online or how much you can download. Some have strict time or download limits.
• How efficient the service is. Some have faster more powerful servers than others.

 

 

3. Mobile Internet Technology ?

This technology uses devices that let you access the internet while on the move. There are different types and examples.

All of the devices have:-

• Mobile phone technology
• A mini browser
• Internal memory
• a processor.

 

 

Some are palmtop's with phone technology built in. They often have features such as:-

 

• Touch screens
• WIMP HCI
• Mini browser
• Calender
• A Database
• A calculator
• Mobile phone connection to access the internet as well as make phone calls and send text messages.

 

 

 

What you have to do!

Answer the following questions under a heading "Internet Service Provider" either in your "Brain" or a new Word document.

1. What service does an ISP Provide?
2. What should look out for when choosing an ISP?
3. What features would a palmtop with mobile internet capability have?

 

 

What you should be able to do!

1. Describe the role of an Internet Service Provider (ISP)

2. Describe how you choose between ISP's

3. Describe some of the software that comes with a smartphone or a palmtop.

 

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