What Is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?

The term Internet service provider (ISP) refers to a company that provides access to the Internet to both personal and business customers. ISPs make it possible for their customers to surf the web, shop online, conduct business, and connect with family and friends—all for a fee. ISPs may also provide other services including email services, domain registration, web hosting, and browser packages. An ISP may also be referred to as an information service provider, a storage service provider, an Internet service provider (INSP), or any combination of these three based on the services the company offers.

Key Takeaways

• An Internet service provider (ISP) is a company that provides web access to both businesses and consumers.
• ISPs may also provide other services such as email services, domain registration, web hosting, and browser services.
• An ISP is considered to be an information service provider, storage service provider, Internet network service provider (INSP), or a mix of all of them.
• Internet use has evolved from only those with university or government accounts having access to nearly everyone having access, whether it's paid or free.
• Access has gone from dial-up connections to high-speed broadband technology.