HP Dc7100 Network & Internet Communications Guide - Page 17

2 Internet Communications The following items are covered in this section: ■ Choosing an Internet Service Provider ■ Content Advisor ■ Solving Internet Access Problems Choosing an Internet Service Provider An Internet service provider (ISP) provides you with access (dial-up, cable, DSL, or wireless) and software you need to connect to the Internet. Most ISPs also offer e-mail, access to newsgroups, space to create Web pages, and technical support. Some ISPs offer commercial services, such as domain hosting, to companies and individuals wanting to do business on the Internet. You can choose from local and national ISPs. An online service provider, such as MSN or America Online (AOL), offers special features, content, and technical support in addition to providing access to the Internet. An online service provider may provide a categorized or customizable home page that makes it easy for you to find some of the most popular and useful sites on the Internet. To find the provider that is right for you: ■ Look in the Yellow Pages ■ Ask a friend or colleague for recommendations ■ If you have access to the Internet already, you can use a search engine, such as Google, to help you locate an ISP or online service provider. Network & Internet Communications Guide www.hp.com 2-1