Public Internet Access
Publicly available Internet terminals are becoming more common, especially in urban areas. Public libraries often have computers with Internet connections available, and Internet cafes provide the same service for an hourly fee. In addition, users with Wi-Fi-capable devices are increasingly likely to find access in many businesses and public areas.
Private Service
If you live in an urban area with strong telecommunications infrastructure, you can buy Internet access from an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The connection may reach you through a telephone line with a service like DSL, through coaxial television cable for Cable Modem service or through a special fiber optic cable. If you live in a location too remote for these lines to reach you, some ISPs will sell you access to their Satellite Internet network, which does not require a wire. Another wireless option in some areas is to access the Internet through a cellular telephone network.
Speed
All broadband services offer great speed advantages over older Internet connections, like dial-up, but the variation within broadband is still relevant to some users. Among the wired connections, fiber optic is fastest, followed by Cable Modem and finally DSL. Satellite Internet speeds vary, but are generally comparable to DSL. Cellular networks are undergoing dramatic growth in some regions and may soon offer wireless Internet service with speeds comparable to or better than most wired connections.
Hardware
Some kind of computer device is required to use the Internet. In addition, for wired connections, some kind of modem is needed to interface with the ISP's network. Satellite Internet requires a special dish antenna and a modem. Wi-Fi networks require your device to be Wi-Fi compatible, and cellular networks have a variety of standards that limit the devices you can use.
Cost
Many public access options are free. From ISPs, the cost of wired connections is almost always greater with greater speed. Satellite Internet usually costs more than wired connections. High-speed cellular network access costs vary but are usually more expensive than wired connections as well.
