Toshiba Tecra 9000 User Guide - Page 140

140 Exploring Your Options An overview of using the Internet Internet Service Providers To connect a computer directly to the Internet, many people and businesses use an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An ISP is a company that has the equipment and the telecommunication lines necessary to maintain an Internet connection. You can connect to the Internet by using a telephone and modem or through other higher-speed communication methods such as Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL), cable, and satellite links. Connecting to the Internet To connect to the Internet, you need: ❖ A modem ❖ A Web browser ❖ A telephone line ❖ An Internet Service Provider (ISP) account Microsoft's Web browser Internet Explorer is automatically configured on your system so that when you first start it, it guides you through signing up for a new ISP account, or assists you in setting up your computer to work with your existing ISP. Once you have established an ISP account, you can connect to the Internet. 1 Connect your computer's modem to a telephone line. For more information on connecting a modem, see "Connecting the modem to a telephone line" on page 134. 2 Start your Web browser. Have your modem dial the ISP's telephone number, and establish a connection with the ISP's computer.