Test Your Connection
Speed Now

Dialup Service Providers

When it comes to Internet connectivity, today’s Web users have more choices than ever before; including Cable, DSL, Wi-Fi, Satellite and Standard Dialup. All connection methods have certain benefits, such as fast speeds, portability, and price. The trick is to find the type of connection that best fits your individual needs.

Of all the Internet connection options available, Dialup access is the most limited. However, despite its limitation, Dialup is still the best fit for many individuals. Read on to learn more about Dialup technology.

Standard Dialup Pros and Cons

Most popular in the 1990s, Dialup works by using a modem to connect computers to telephone lines. You simply plug your computer into any phone jack, and dial in to your Internet service provider (ISP).

Dialup technology has been around for many years. During this time, the Internet has continuously evolved. Many Web sites have increased in size, and downloading music and interactive gaming have become more popular. As a result, more and more people are replacing Dialup service with faster broadband connections.

But Dialup still has its advantages. Since phone lines are available in almost all parts of the world, it’s a great option for frequent travelers. It is also a good alternative if broadband is unavailable in your community or if you’re on a tight budget.

High Speed Dialup

Today, many ISP’s who offer Dialup connections also offer High Speed Dialup service to its customer base.

High Speed Dialup increases speed by adding an accelerated server to the chain between your Dialup connection and the Web. The server uses a broadband connection to search the Internet for servers that host the Web sites you want to visit. Once the accelerated server finds what you’re looking for, it compresses, filters and caches the data, and sends it back to you. This process increases your web browsing speed.

However, be careful not to be misled by the term “high speed Dialup”. While the technology does quicken standard Web browsing, it will not increase download speeds. If you often download music and photos or are an interactive gaming enthusiast, High Speed Dialup is not the right choice for you.

Dialup Internet Service Providers

Want to learn more about Dialup? Below you will find detailed package and service information from three popular Dialup service providers.

Netzero provides both standard and high speed Dialup connections at affordable rates. Depending on the package you choose, you get a host of extra features, such as e-mail with spam and virus protection, Instant Message compatibility, free Internet calling minutes and so much more. That’s not all; for an additional fee you get unlimited access to premium content, such as Gameblast from Shockwave, American Greetings, Encyclopedia Britannica, and Clever Island.

America Online or AOL is a name that many people recognize and trust. With a basic AOL subscription, you get unlimited access and 24/7 customer support for a low monthly rate. Subscribers can upgrade to AOL Dialup Advantage which include privacy wall with up to $10,000 ID theft insurance coverage and premium computer check-up for Windows XP with up to $1,000 PC insurance coverage. In addition, AOL offers AOL High Speed Essentials. This package gives broadband users a back-up to their existing High Speed connection. It also provides 10 hours of Dialup at no additional charge and, gives access to extensive premium content.

PeoplePC’s most basic package provides customers with unlimited surfing for just $4.97 for the first three months. For an additional fee, subscribers can upgrade to PeoplePC Security Plus, which includes high speed Dialup, free security software and so much more. No matter which plan you choose, you always get e-mail accounts with spam blockers, 100 MB of storage, Internet call waiting, free tech support and more.