For many computer users, an Internet connection is the main reason for buying a PC. The Internet is an amazing tool that allows you to do many things such as: staying in touch with relatives, researching a project, viewing newspapers online, and more.

The first thing you need to do to get online is purchase a modem if you computer doesn't have one. Most computers come equipped with a modem. The modem is a piece of hardware that allows your computer to communicate with other computers through the phone line or several other types of connections. If your computer doesn't have a modem, don't worry. Modems are very inexpensive and cheap to install.

Speed is everything in the Internet world. Many Internet service providers provide high speed access for an ever-decreasing cost. SBC DSL and Roadrunner cable services are two very popular methods. I would suggest you look into these two services if you are impatient like I am.

A 56k modem provides two phone jacks on the rear of your computer. One jack for the phone/fax, and one jack you must use to connect the pc to the wall. Once you're plugged in you need to get yourself an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An Internet Service Provider is a company that will provide you with the connection needed to use the internet. The internet is frequently called the "world wide web" for one reason. The Internet is simply a large network of computers. When you connect to the internet, you actually connect to a computer at your ISP; which is connected to other machines spread around the globe. The pictures and text you see on this website are stored on a computer that you are accessing now. Your browser (what you are using to view this webpage) reads the information and inteprets it so that you can view it easily. Don't worry if your eyes are glazed over. Let's get back to choosing a proper ISP.

How do I choose the right internet service provider? And how much should I spend?

There are many things to consider when choosing an ISP. You must figure out how much the service is, how fast the connection will be, and (in my opinion) the quality of the customer service. When it comes to service, an inferior ISP may have too many customers and not enough support. The best thing to do would be to ask any close friends which service they use. When it comes to cost, I personally wouldn't pay more than $20 for dialup, and $50 for DSL or cable for residential use.

Once you've chosen which ISP to use, there are several ways to get connected. The BEST way is simply to use the CD the ISP has provided or have them install the software for you. If the ISP doesn't have the capability to do this, you may want to look for another. If you don't have that option, you should be able to get connected using the built-in Windows Connection Wizard.

Before you commit to a service provider, there are a few extra tips you need to know.

• Find out if the price per month is set in stone.
• Are there any set up fees?
• Am I required to sign a contract that forces me to stay with your company for x amount of time?

With that said, I have personally taken the time to find a few ISP's worth mentioning. Since most of our readers will be starting off with dial-up, here is a list of ISP's I recommend and their price per month. If ANYONE has a major problem with one of the providers, I will make sure to remove them from the list.