What Is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)? | ISP Definition
We use the Internet in almost every aspect of life. Though we may take it for granted, Internet access ultimately all relies on your Internet service provider, or ISP. This article will cover what an ISP is and how it works. We'll also explain their services and how you can find out who your ISP is.
What is an ISP?
An Internet service provider (ISP) is a company that provides individuals and businesses with access to the Internet. ISPs offer various services, including Internet connectivity, email hosting, and website hosting, enabling users to communicate, access information, and conduct online transactions. ISPs connect users to the global network. Through this, they play a critical role in online activities They also support economic growth and development.
Although most people get a router from their ISP to access the Internet, ISPs supply more than just Internet access. They offer several other Internet connection methods and, in some cases, additional services.
What services do ISPs provide?
Internet service providers primarily provide access to the Internet. However, some do have more services available in conjunction with Internet access. You may find that your Internet service provider also offers:
- email services
- web hosting capabilities
- development services
- domain registration
- television or cable access
- cellphone or telephone service
Almost all ISPs offer the ability to access the web and use email. But many Internet service providers offer bundles of the above services depending on your needs.
Internet service providers also keep logs of your activity. This doesn't need to be a privacy concern for users who are not committing nefarious acts online. A VPN can encrypt this data so your ISP can't spy on you.
In most cases, Internet service providers also provide IP location data to ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers). This database administers and tracks IP addresses and ASNs.
How do ISPs work?
Internet service providers function in network systems. The Internet itself is ultimately just a series of networks. When you connect to your Internet service provider's network, they assign each device an IP (Internet Protocol) address. Then, they connect you to a larger network.
This continues until you access the Internet through a wide area network (WAN).
How many networks or connections your Internet connection goes through depends on your ISP tier.
How your ISP works will depend on the type of connection you have through your ISP. It can be based on analog lines, DSL, WiFi, cable, or several other types of connections. Note that the underlying infrastructure is different for each. It also depends on whether or not net neutrality restricts your ISP.
Regardless of your ISP's connection method, the service travels through networks in seconds. This happens quickly enough that we don't even realize the connections that occur for us to communicate.
Understanding the ISP tier system
As mentioned above, Internet service providers are ranked in tiers. These tiers refer to the levels of direct Internet access that ISPs have. They break down into three categories: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3.
Tier 1 Internet service providers
Tier 1 Internet service providers have almost complete and direct access to Internet networks. They are able to easily exchange with other network providers. They often have near-total control of a certain area's market.
This is due to their access and agreements with comparable providers. They invest heavily in their technology and frameworks in order to maintain access.
Some examples of Tier 1 ISPs are AT&T, LG, Samsung, Verizon Fios, and CenturyLink. These ISPs can share access with each other without paying fees for traffic exchange in something known as public peering.
Tier 2 Internet service providers
In many cases, Tier 2 Internet service providers must pay for access. They utilize several different vendors or transit services from Tier 1 providers. Transit means an ISP allows traffic to cross through its network to reach a final destination, typically for a fee. Essentially, one tier utilizes the services of another, higher tier.
Tier 2 providers can share access with each other without fees like Tier 1 providers can. However, Tier 2 ISPs cannot get direct and total access to all networks independently. They do have extensive peering networks with other Tier 2 ISPs, allowing them to handle regional traffic efficiently.
Tier 3 Internet service providers
Similarly, Tier 3 Internet service providers need to purchase access and services from the above tiers. They have the least control over their own access. They must rely on Tier 2 and Tier 1 providers to get the same level. Though this does not mean Tier 3 ISPs are poor quality, it increases the risk of convoluted network connections.
Types of ISPs
Internet service providers offer a variety of different Internet connection methods depending on users' needs. The best Internet connection for you depends on where you live, how you use the Internet, and what you do online.
Your location, Internet usage, and online activities all play a role in determining the ideal connection for you. Consider the following Internet connection types and the kinds of activities they are generally suited for. This will help you choose an ISP and Internet plan.
Cable
Cable Internet is what many people picture when they think of types of Internet services and access. This type of Internet uses a cable modem plugged directly into the Internet via coaxial cables in your home.
It provides average Internet speeds. They aren't the fastest on the market. But it's a reliable pace for those who regularly use the Internet for many activities.
Fixed wireless broadband
Fixed wireless broadband Internet allows users to access the Internet from a stationary antenna. These Internet plans work well in rural areas with no wired broadband infrastructure. It is a solid option for people with a moderate amount of Internet traffic.
Digital subscriber line (DSL)
Digital subscriber line (DSL) allows for faster Internet access than dial-up connections using local phone lines. It isn't the fastest form of the Internet, but it still works for users who browse the Internet or stream videos. Due to its reliability and low latency, it's a solid choice for users who frequently game online.
Dial-up
Dial-up is one of the oldest Internet options. Though outdated, it still exists. Dial-up is best used if you use the Internet casually to check email or news updates. For heavy Internet users, dial-up lacks the necessary speeds.
Fiber optic
Fiber-optic Internet uses light to transmit information across optical fiber cables. This makes it one of the faster forms of Internet. Though it isn't as widely available in all areas yet, fiber-optic is a good choice for many users. It works well for those who want to use the Internet, video chat, and more at the fastest upload and download speeds.
Satellite
Satellite is another form of wireless Internet used often in rural areas. It relies on signals from space to properly function. However, satellites provide fast speeds with a clear established connection.
How do I find my ISP?
You may not know who your Internet service provider is or how to find them. If you're wondering what your IP address is, you can check the WhatIsMyIP home page.
Similarly, if you want to know "who is my Internet service provider?" you'll also find your Internet service provider on the home page. It also shows your IP location and your IP address - both your IPv4 and IPv6 address if available.
If you have someone else's IP address, you can also find their ISP. Enter the IP address into the IP Lookup Tool. You'll receive information about the IP address's Internet service provider, time zone, and general location.
Whether you're looking up your IP address or someone else's, you may find that the IP geolocation data is incorrect. This happens; IP location data isn't always completely accurate. Changing your IP address with a VPN or proxy will also make your data appear incorrect. You can update your IP geolocation data with third-party databases if you want to correct the error.
Frequently asked questions
What is my Internet service provider?
Your Internet service provider is the company that provides you with Internet access. It lets you browse online, visit websites, and communicate with others.
How do I choose an ISP?
To choose an ISP, consider important factors like:
- Availability of service
- Prices
- Service speeds
- Internet connection strength
Depending on where you live, you may need to go with a dial-up or DSL connection for access. If you live in a more accessible area, you'll have more options. However, it's still essential to consider the price and quality of service. Once you've chosen you ISP, reach out to them to begin the process.
What is the difference between an ISP and a web hosting service?
An ISP provides users with access to the Internet. A web hosting service, on the other hand, provides users with access to websites that they host and run on their servers.
Can I have multiple ISPs?
You can't have multiple ISPs for the same WiFi network. However, if you have multiple WiFi networks in a building or office, then technically, yes, you can have more than one ISP.
Is ISP the same as WiFi?
No, an ISP is not the same as WiFi. Though Internet is often thought of as WiFi, they are separate things. Internet service providers can offer WiFi, but they supply Internet via numerous ways - not just through WiFi.
Internet service providers supply Internet to a location. WiFi providers take that Internet and route it through to users. It's possible to have a WiFi connection and still no Internet if your Internet provider is experiencing outages. It's also possible to have available Internet that you can't access if your WiFi connection is not strong enough.
What are the types of ISP?
There are several different types of ISP that provide different types of WiFi. ISPs can be either Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3. They provide cable Internet, fixed wireless Internet, DSL Internet, dial-up Internet, fiber-optic Internet, and satellite Internet.
What does ISP stand for?
ISP stands for Internet service provider. Internet service providers (ISPs) do exactly what the name indicates: offer Internet services to users via network connections. Most residential services provided by ISPs use dynamic IP addresses. However, ISPs usually offer the option to upgrade to a static IP address for a small fee.
Can I change my IP address through my ISP?
Yes, you can change your IP address by contacting your Internet service provider. Changing your IP address can give you more anonymity online. Though your ISP will have a record of your IP address changes, it's possible for your ISP to change your IP address. However, you can also easily change your IP address with a VPN or proxy.
