Internet Service Provider - technical definition

Also sometimes called an Internet Access Provider (IAP), it is a company that provides clients access to the Internet. For a fee, clients receive a software package, a username, a password, and an access phone number. Equipped with a modem or ISDN device, the client can then log on to the Internet. The client can browse the World Wide Web (WWW) or send and receive email. ISPs offer both dial-up service and high-speed services using DSL or cable-modem technology. ISPs are connected to each other through Network Access Points, or NAPs.

See Also: DSL; Electronic Mail or Email; Internet; Internet Usage Policy; World Wide Web (WWW).