Internet service provider

Internet service provider (ISP) is an organization that provides services for accessing, using, or participating in the Internet. ISPs can be organized in various forms, such as commercial, community-owned, non-profit, or otherwise privately owned.

History

The concept of an ISP originated from the development of the ARPANET and the subsequent proliferation of the Internet. The first ISPs were established in the United States in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, ISPs have become a fundamental part of the global infrastructure of the Internet.

Services

ISPs offer a range of services, including Internet access, Internet transit, domain name registration, web hosting, and colocation.

Internet Access

Internet access is the most well-known service provided by ISPs. This involves providing a connection to the Internet via various technologies such as broadband and dial-up.

Internet Transit

Internet transit is the service of allowing network traffic to cross or "transit" a computer network. This is usually used in network interconnection agreements.

Domain Name Registration

ISPs often offer services to host a domain and provide domain name registration. This allows individuals or businesses to maintain a professional web presence.

Web Hosting

Web hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web page onto the Internet. A web host, or web hosting service provider, is a business that provides the technologies and services needed for the website or webpage to be viewed on the Internet.

Colocation

Colocation is a service where the ISP provides space for customers to locate their servers and other hardware. The ISP manages the facility, power, and physical security while the customer provides and manages the server hardware and software.

Regulation

ISPs are subject to regulation by various governmental bodies, depending on the country in which they operate. In many countries, ISPs are considered utilities, similar to electricity and water services, and are regulated as such.

See Also

• Broadband
• Dial-up
• ARPANET
• Internet transit
• Domain name registration
• Web hosting
• Colocation (business)