The world wide web is the most pervasive network the world has ever known. The internet has allowed for all sorts of businesses, large and small, to be able to provide their services and products, no matter where they’re located in the world. Through the internet, people can communicate with each other as if they were in the same place, no matter the physical distance. With this level of connectivity also comes a need for maintaining that pipeline.

Internet service providers are responsible for the connection between your device (computer, tablet or phone) and the digital world. They offer the infrastructure that makes your connection possible.

This infrastructure takes many forms, based on your location and the type of internet service you desire. In the past, most of the world was confined to using dial-up connections that were incredibly slow and unreliable. Now, ISPs offer a variety of services from low-cost dial-up services to broadband satellite, cable, and wireless services.

ISPs allow for the transmission of data over their network with the use of a modem. Modems convert digital data into a signal that can travel through the cable or phone line. The signal is then converted back into digital data after it reaches your computer.

ISPs manage user access and security through authentication processes. This allows websites to determine whether you have permission to login, enter a site, or download information. ISPs also set bandwidths—the number of bytes your device can send and receive at any given time. ISPs manage the flow of information on their networks to protect both the network and its users.

For businesses, an email address provided by an ISP adds credibility and a visible connection to the company. ISPs will provide a large storage capacity for emails with embedded protection systems that filter out spam and unwanted emails. They may also provide other services such as web hosting, site building, domain registration, and search engine optimization.

It is important to choose a reliable and quality ISP in order to get the most out of your internet connection. Without doing so, you may experience slow speeds, unreliable connections, and limited access to certain websites or services. Be sure to research your network and the different ISPs available in your area before deciding on the right one for you.