ISP stands for Internet Service Provider.
Basically an ISP is the broadband provider that gives you access to
the internet - normally at a cost of course!
There are many broadband ISPs in the UK including BT,
Sky, Virgin Media, TalkTalk and AOL.
A good broadband ISP will provide you with the necessary
equipment you need for your broadband package. This normally
includes a wireless router, ADSL filters and operating
software.
Some broadband ISPs may also provide free security software such
as Norton with your broadband package. Make sure you know if you
will have to pay extra for any of this software and equipment. Add
it to the overall cost of your broadband package or broadband deal
when choosing a broadband ISP.
Broadband ISPs use different methods to deliver your broadband.
The two most common ways in which broadband ISPs deliver broadband
in the UK are:
ADSL broadband
This type of broadband connection is through your BT
landline. It is popular because wherever there is a
BT landline in the UK, the customer should be able
to get some sort of internet access via ADSL broadband.
Cable broadband
This method is widely used by Virgin Media in
the UK. Virgin Media don't just use any old cable to deliver your
broadband, they use fibre optic cables. These magic cables are able
to deliver broadband speeds of up to 50Mbps. However Virgin Media
cable doesn't cover the whole of the UK, so you may not get the
service if you live outside urban areas where Virgin Media cable is
more common.
Broadband ISPs offer many different services
with their broadband packages. Some offer broadband bundles.
Broadband bundle deals allow you to combine digital TV, home phone
and broadband into one package. You can bundle broadband &
digital TV or broadband & home phone or all three
together.
By doing this you could save money. You also save hassle by having
all your services from one provider.
When you choose a broadband ISP you need to decide what you want
from it. Many broadband ISPs now offer cheap broadband and some
even offer free broadband when taken with other services.
Don't just go with the cheapest broadband deal just because it's
cheap, if it doesn't have the things you want then it's not
worth having.