Comparing and Choosing an ISP

If you are trying to compare ISPs, there are several web sites which objectively evaluate the costs and features of different ISPs. A search for 'comparing ISP service' or similar wording will bring up several sites which compare costs, features, connection speeds and how they rate in customer service.

You can also simply go to the home page of each ISP where you can get an overview of their products, costs and services. Most providers have various 'extras' which you can access such as travel, entertainment, sports or lifestyle sections. Decide if you like the layout of the page and ensure that it is easy to use – the home page can also often be 'personalised' with local news and events.

Verify how many email addresses you are allowed, (most ISPs allow you to have several) and how easy it is to send, receive and sort email. Some ISPs will allow you a free trial run to use their service.

When choosing an ISP, perhaps the first decision you need to make is whether you want to access the internet by dial up or broadband. Dial up is usually cheaper, but can be notoriously slow and it also ties up your phone line.

Broadband is generally faster and has become increasingly popular and comes in two basic types – via cable, or via a BT telephone line (also known as ADSL broadband). The area of the UK you live in may influence your choice of ISP – find out whether your local cable network or telephone exchange is configured for broadband.

There is a big difference in price between the various providers, ranging from free service, to around 25 pounds a month. The more expensive providers tend to offer unlimited or unmetered access; the cheaper providers may offer what is usually called a 'pay as you go' service. There may be more restrictions or hidden charges and fees. When choosing between unlimited and pay as you go access, there are several things to consider. Decide what you want to use the internet for – playing games, downloading music, research, email or chat – and how much time a day you will typically spend on line.

Unmetered internet access is a good option for regular use, or if you have different family members who may need be on line at different times of the day. You pay a fixed amount for this service – the average cost is around 18 pounds a month for unlimited access. You aren't usually charged for the cost of the phone call to connect.

Check the small print carefully before making a commitment as there may be a minimum period for the contract – anything from 3 to 12 months. Your credit card may be charged again at the end of the initial period unless you contact the ISP to cancel the service.

Pay as you go packages can be added to your phone bill and most of these make use of a 0845 number to access the internet, which is usually charged at the cost of a local phone call. Pay as you go may be ideal for people who go on line occasionally and don't want a long term commitment.

The access charges may vary depending on the time of day you go on line – just as with your phone bill. Some packages include free minutes which work in much the same way as the minutes on your mobile phone. Check that the provider doesn't have too many hidden charges and fees, and that the terms are easy to understand.

On-line safety and security is important when comparing ISPs. Many offer a range of services that are included in the monthly fee and are usually easy and quick to download, such as email virus protection, anti-spam and 'pop-up' blocking software.

If the speed of your connection or download is important to you, choose your internet provider carefully. Some ISPs offering unmetered access have varying connection speeds, or have several different plans – the higher the speed, the higher the monthly cost. If you plan to download a lot of music and film, a faster connection may be better for you; for general web surfing a slower connection may suffice.

Cost, connection speed and other features are all important - but so is being able to get help when necessary. For those of us who aren't technically minded, it's useful to be able to email – or talk to - someone at technical support, any time of day or night. Establish that it's a free phone call if there is a number to ring for technical help or customer service.
 
 
About the Author
Simon Wharton is a Communications Consultant for Which ISP based in Manchester.More information can be found at www.whichisp.com

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