144 Enhancing Productivity
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 and telephone line, or a LAN connection
❖A Web browser
❖An Internet Service Provider (ISP) account
The Microsoft® 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.
1Connect your computer’s modem to a telephone line.
For more information on connecting a modem, see
“Connecting your modem to a telephone line” on
page 160.
2Start your Web browser. Have your modem dial the ISP’s
telephone number, and establish a connection with the ISP’s
computer.
If you are using your computer at the office, then you probably
connect to the Internet through your company’s network. See your
network administrator about connecting to the Internet.