Networking & Internet
ISP
Definition
An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is an organization that provides services for accessing, using, or participating in the Internet. ISPs may be organized in various forms, such as commercial, community-owned, non-profit, or otherwise privately owned.
Why It Matters
The ISP is your gateway to the internet. They provide the physical connection (e.g., cable, fiber, DSL) from your home or office to their network, which is then connected to the rest of the global internet.
Contextual Example
Comcast, AT&T, and Verizon are examples of major ISPs in the United States. You pay them a monthly fee for your internet connection.
Common Misunderstandings
- ISPs assign the public IP address that you use to access the internet.
- The speed and quality of your internet connection are largely determined by your ISP.