Your internet service provider is usually
the one that provides you with a connection to the internet - dial-up, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), cable, or satellite. You cannot
get onto the internet without it. There are a wide variety with many additional
features and varying prices. Basically, there is the large corporation which can
provide you with many services and even start you off with free service, though
they often cost more in the long-term. There are local services which can offer
a friendly voice that you're familiar with, but often not 24/7 support. And there are
free services which will be more apt to have little to no support and may disconnect you
after being online for only a short period of time. Here is an example of some
of them:
AOL (American Online) - The #1 service primarily due to its free 1,000 hours, but continued service often costs more than smaller companies. They offer their own services, such as special guides and programs that are not available to the entire internet. Their software is limited in features, though, and not interchangable with others, so I've heard. They offer local access almost anywhere you travel, though most services today offer web access to your email account and many hotels and public libraries around the country and elsewhere offer free internet service.
Juno is a popular free service which many people use. They say that you get what you pay for, though, so don't expect to always be able to connect and download your email every time you want. This would be best for people who don't expect to be online for very long and can check it at various times, especially times that are not very popular. (4:00 to 10:00 PM are usually the busiest hours, I believe.)
Comcast provides cable internet service. It's a good high-speed connection. Some people have reported problems in apartment complexes where cables are old, but most people find it reliable.
Verizon DSL is another high speed service. This is not available everywhere. There have been reports of service problems, but some people are very happy with it.
Broadband Reports reviews local companies that provide DSL services. Just put in 20613 or whatever zip code is nearest to you. You can also add your own review.