ISP – What it is and what types there are
Nowadays, internet access has become a necessity for both companies and individuals. The network is the channel through which a large number of day-to-day actions and tasks are carried out; from banking operations, reservations in stores and restaurants to sending documentation, online purchases or communication with public administrations and clients. In order to access the internet it is necessary to hire an internet service provider and pay an access fee.
Next, we will see what an ISP is, how it is different from hosting and what types of internet service providers exist .
What is an ISP or Internet Service Provider?
An Internet Service Provider or ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a company that provides Internet access in exchange for payment of a monthly fee. The ISP is the gateway to the Internet for both companies and individuals.
ISPs deploy a telecommunications network to which they connect personal computers and business networks. These networks are in turn connected to other networks to provide access to the global network.
Differences between ISP and hosting
It is common for an Internet ISP company to be confused with hosting services. The ISP is a company that provides Internet access (although it may also offer other associated hosting services). For its part, a hosting company offers different hosting and cloud work services, for which they need to hire an ISP that gives them access to the Internet.
Types of Internet Service Providers
ISPs offer different types of Internet access, such as ADSL access, cable access, satellite access, or the most commonly used today, fiber optic access. Some types of ISP are:
Dial-up ISPs: They provide network access over the telephone line and require a modem for this. These types of services have become obsolete with the arrival of fiber optics or other types of more advanced connections.
ADSL ISP ISP: The high-speed modem connection is still used today, although it tends to be completely replaced by other types of connections. The biggest handicap of this type of connection is that it depends on the distance from the ISP’s connection switchboard.
Cable Access ISP: Uses a coaxial cable to provide Internet data access and television services
Radiofrequency access ISP: This type of Internet access is used in areas where there is no cable infrastructure, and is carried out through a series of radiofrequency antennas (its use is common in rural areas).
Satellite access ISP: In remote or difficult-to-access areas, this type of satellite connection is used.
Fiber optic ISP: It is the type of connection most used today by companies and individuals, since it offers a high asymmetric transfer rate (upload and download of data).
In summary, ISPs are responsible for providing access to the network, there are different types depending on the available infrastructure and each country has its own companies in charge of providing these services.