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Choosing an ISP

ISPs come in different shapes and sizes. Depending on where you reside, you may have a variety of options from cable Internet to dial-up services. Or you may reside in a rural area without even dial-up access where satellite service is your only option.

However, regardless of the ISP you choose, make sure you understand the terms of the service contract, including:

• total cost, including taxes and installation fees
• length of contract
• method of billing-monthly, quarterly
• payment-direct billing from a checking account, charge to a credit card
• backup service if the ISP is down
• e-mail addresses-how many are permitted?
• Web page publishing-is there space available to set up a homepage for your family?
• technical support-cost and availability (Twenty-four hours a day is best.)