How can I access the Internet without an IU network account?

When you graduate or leave Indiana University, you will no longer have your IU Network ID or active accounts. You will need to obtain Internet access from a private company, an Internet service provider (ISP). What follows is a general outline of the choices and resources available to you.

Connecting to the Internet

First, you must determine what type of connection you will need. There are four common methods of connecting to the Internet from home:

• Cable modem: A cable modem is a device that enables you to connect your computer to a local cable TV line and receive data. This type of modem can be integrated with a set-top box that provides your TV set with channels for Internet access. In most cases, you receive a cable modem and installation as part of the cable access service; you do not purchase the modem directly or install it yourself. Cable modem access is the most popular method for a fast Internet connection.
  
  
• Dial-up connection: Using a 56K analog modem, you can use your telephone line to dial into your ISP's modem pool. This is the cheapest method, but ties up your phone line, and is relatively slow.
  
  
• DSL: DSL (digital subscriber line) is a type of technology that can bring high-bandwidth information to homes and small businesses over ordinary copper telephone lines. DSL transmits digital data directly to your computer, thereby allowing the phone company to use a much wider bandwidth for transmission. This type of technology allows you to separate the signal so that some of the bandwidth transmits an analog signal, which will enable you to use your telephone and your computer on the same line at the same time.
  
  
• ISDN: ISDN stands for Integrated Services Digital Network. In most urban areas of the US, ISDN service and the necessary equipment are provided by the phone company. ISDN is declining in popularity and cost-effectiveness, as broadband services such as cable modems and DSL have become more available.

Finding an Internet service provider

You will need to purchase your Internet access from a local ISP. Some ISPs offer other services in addition to email and web access, such as interactive games, weather and travel information, live chats with other users, software libraries, and more.

You can choose from a variety of online services. Which one is best for you is mostly a matter of your tastes and level of experience, and how much money you want to spend. Some companies have designed their systems for the novice user, while others provide only bare-bones access with less technical support.

Some online services provide software to install on your computer, which is a front end or user interface to their services. A front end will often present a company's services graphically, and let you use your mouse or arrow keys to select options.

Cost is a major consideration when choosing an online service. Some service providers charge a flat rate for each minute of time you spend connected. Others charge a flat monthly rate for unlimited use. In most cases telephone charges will not be a concern, since most services offer local numbers for most areas. A few vendors also offer value-added services, for which you pay a surcharge. Often, companies use a hybrid of these billing schemes. Some ISPs offer free email, but no other Internet services such as web access. Check out Yahoo!'s list of free email providers.

Many companies offer free trial periods, so you can shop around before subscribing to one. However, if you choose not to continue a service, be sure to properly close your account. If you don't, the company may continue to bill you even though you have stopped using the service.

These two web sites can help you find an ISP:

• The List
• ISP Find

Following are some of the most popular nationwide ISPs:

• America Online: Information/subscription: 800-827-6364
• CompuServe: Information/subscription: 800-848-8990
• EarthLink: Information/subscription: 800-327-8454
• AT&T: Information/subscription: 800-742-8771

Also see:

• At IU, can I keep my computing accounts open while I study abroad?
• What are the ISPs in the Bloomington area?
• How can I get free access to the Internet?
• What is an Internet service provider (ISP)?
• In Windows, how can I tell what modem I have?
• Who are the ISPs in the Indianapolis area?