- 1). Make a list of all the ways in which you would like to use the Internet, such as entertainment, emailing friends and colleagues, sharing files or performing research for work.
- 2). Highlight the items that are most important to you based on your needs. Internet service providers offer many features in addition to simply the speed of the connection such as email storage, and computer backup. Decide how much time each day you expect to use your Internet connection, and on how many computers. Make note of whether or not you plan to send and receive large files, watch videos and movies online or download music.
- 3). Inspect your home or office for possible connection points, such as telephone outlets and television cable outlets. Note their location in relation to your computer.
- 4). Decide what type of connection you think you are most interested in. Dial-up connections are the slowest and often cheapest Internet connections, and use your standard telephone jack. DSL connections are considerably faster, and a bit more expensive. DSL also uses telephone wiring, but is independent of your telephone service, so you can talk on the phone and be connected to the Internet at the same time. Cable connections use your cable TV outlet, and are often the fastest consumer connections. Cable Internet is usually provided by your local cable company, and the cost is similar to DSL. See the "Resources" for a link to more in-depth explanations of each of these connections.
- 5). Call your local telephone and cable companies and ask about the Internet services they offer. Refer to your list of Internet uses and connection points to help narrow your options with the representative. If you already have telephone or cable service, Internet connections can often be added to your existing bill at a discount.
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