Everybody’s talking about it, and you’re starting to feel a little out of the loop. In a world now full of terminology like E-mail, HTML, ISP address, and user name, the Internet has become more than a privilege, it is a necessity. But there’s a lot more to consider before you can just log on and start “surfing the world wide web.”

Questions to Consider

Will you be using a dial-up, DSL, or cable connection? How much are you willing to spend per month? Is there any extra equipment to buy? And finally, how much will you actually be using the Internet? This last question is probably the first one you will want to answer for yourself.

Dial-Up: Slow but Cheap

If logging on is more like a once-a-month or once-a-week occasion, consider saving some money and just visiting your local library; use of their online-ready computers is typically free of charge. If you will be using the Internet on more of a day-to-day basis and you already have a phone line, a dial-up connection is the least expensive option. Your Internet speed will be slower than other options, and it does tend to tie up your phone line each time you log on, but you will only spend about $10-25 a month.

DSL: Speedy and Reliable

DSL, or direct service line connections are made through your phone company and do not tie up your phone line. Internet speed is remarkably faster than dial-up, and you are connected to the Internet nonstop, but it will cost more, between $30-40 a month, and you are required to have a phone line as well.

Cable: Faster than a Speeding Bullet but Costs an Arm and a Leg

The fastest and priciest Internet option is the cable connection made through your TV cable company; this option is best for those wishing to use the Internet several times a day, especially for online videogamers and downloads. You will be spending as much as $50 with cable, maybe less depending on if you use some of their other services, for example, digital cable TV. You are connected continuously, however, and the speed is astonishing. In an option-driven economy, Internet service providers serve to get you connected your way, whether it be once-a-month or 24/7.