Lesson-10

CONNECTING TO INTERNET

How Do I Connect to the Internet?

Once you've set up your computer, you'll probably want to get internet access so that you can send and receive email, browse the web, watch movies, and more. Before you can access the internet, there are three things that you need: internet service, a modem, and a web browser.

Choosing an Internet Service

It all depends on where you live and how much speed you need. Internet Service Providers usually offer different levels of speed based on your needs. If you're mainly using the internet for e-mail and social networking, a slower connection might be all you need, but if you want to download a lot of music or watch streaming movies, you'll want a faster connection. You'll need to do some research to find out what the options are in your area.

Choosing an Internet Service Provider

Once you have decided which type of internet access you are interested in, you can determine which ISPs are available in your area that offer the type of internet access you want. Then, you will need to purchase internet service from one of the available ISPs. Talk to friends, family members, and neighbors to see what ISP they use. Below are some things to consider as you research ISPs:

• Speed
• Price
• Ease of Installation
• Service Record
• Technical Support
• Contract Terms

Although dial-up has traditionally been the cheapest option, many ISPs have raised dial-up prices to be the same as broadband. This is intended to encourage people to switch over to broadband. Generally, you should only use dial-up if Hardware Needed.

Once you have your computer, you really don't need much additional hardware to connect to the internet. The primary piece of hardware you need is a modem.

The type of internet access you choose will determine what type of modem you need. Dial-up access uses a telephone modem, DSL service uses a DSL modem, cable access uses a cable modem, and satellite service uses a satellite adapter. Your ISP may give you a modem (often for a fee) when you sign a contract with them, which helps to ensure that you have the right kind of modem. However, if you would prefer to shop for a better or cheaper modem, then you can choose to buy one separately.

A router is a hardware device that allows you to connect several computers and other devices to a single internet connection, which is known as a home network. Many routers are wireless, allowing you to easily create a wireless network.

You don't necessarily need to buy a router to connect to the internet. It's possible to connect your computer directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Also, many modems now include a built-in router, so you have the option of creating a network without having to buy more hardware.

Most routers also act as a hardware firewall, which helps prevent people from gaining access to your computer through the internet.

 

A network card is a piece of hardware that allows computers to communicate over a computer network. Most newer computers have a network card built into the motherboard, so it probably is not something you will need to purchase. The network card will either have an Ethernet port, a wireless connection, or both.

If you have a laptop with a wireless connection, you can access the internet at any place that offers a Wi-Fi connection. Many restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, hotels and other businesses offer free Wi-Fi. In addition, many cities provide free Wi-Fi in public areas such as parks and downtown areas.

Web Browsers (Internet Explorer)

A web browser is the tool that you use to access the World Wide Web. The browser's main job is to display web pages. It also lets you create Bookmarks (sometimes called Favorites) for sites you like, so that you can easily find them again later.

The World Wide Web is a virtual network of web sites connected by hyperlinks (or "links"). Web sites are stored on servers on the internet, so the World Wide Web is a part of the internet. Your computer probably came with a browser pre-installed. PCs come with Internet Explorer, and Macs come with Safari. If you prefer to use a different browser, you can download Firefox, Google Chrome, or Opera. All of these browsers are free.