Module # 7.1.4

Be aware of commercial providers and their services

Getting there

Just about anywhere in the country these days, you can buy internet services.

Several issues should be considered. 
First, do they allow only dial-up connections, or will they accept direct connections?
Next, what are their connection speeds.
How many phone lines do they have for dialup (how often should you expect a busy signal).
Do they provide software?
How much do they cost per month?
Are they a direct internet connection, or are they a proprietary service (like AOL)?

Most dial-up service is running about $20 per month with unlimited hours of use. 
Today, March 8, 1998; few ISP's support 56K modem speeds everywhere.  But most have some capability depending on your location.
You should look for a service provider with better than 95% first time connection rate (no problems connecting 95% of the time).
You also want a local phone number to dial.
Of course you want free mail and browser software.
Direct internet is better than proprietary services.

Some common carriers:
AT&T
MCI
SPRINT
PRODIGY (some forms are proprietary services others are live internet)
AOL (a proprietary service)
Local phone companies
JUNO (really just an e-mail account)
other local companies
some local universities

Exercise #1

Find information on a two service providers and decide which you would choose.