Cheap internet access?

Everyone who's online today must include in their fixed household expenses the cost of accessing the internet. Many of the big name ISPs are charging a substantial amount for the privilege, which leads some of us to say, "Why so much?" You may start looking around after seeing an ad which promises all the services of the big guys at half the price. Cheap internet access is something everyone wants. Before quitting your current ISP and going for the cheaper rate, here are a few tips on checking out the new cheaper net access provider prior to making a commitment. After all, it's a hassle to notify all your friends of your new email address, as well as updating your profile for any e-newsletters coming to your inbox.

The ISPs all know there are a thousand other providers out there competing for your business. Some rely on your becoming used to their home page format, nurturing your natural aversion to change. As long as they provide adequate service, you're not likely to change. However, some get a little too big for their britches and assume beyond the customers' level of tolerance. For example, have you seen ads on your ISPs home page offering DSL access to new customers at the same rate as you're paying for dial up access? When you click to learn more, you find that the offer doesn't extend to you, either because you're already a customer or they say the DSL service is not available in your area. This will send 9 out of 10 customers looking for a new, cheaper internet access provider.

So you surf around and find another ISP willing to provide access at half the price you're currently paying. Sounds good, huh? Because you're not feeling kindly towards your current ISP today, you may sign up on the spot. When you've paid and made the necessary notifications for a seamless transition to your new cheap internet access provider, you discover you are only allowed a limited amount of mailbox space and one email address. You want to check out these caveats before you hand over your cash, not after.

Let's say you've received a CD in the mail with one of those "free 30-day trials, just $9.95 per month thereafter and no credit card required" emblazoned in no uncertain terms right on the front of the package. What have you got to lose? You can try out this cheap net access while still retaining your old ISP service. If you find that credit card info is required, go no further. Chances are high you'll soon discover hidden charges on your card before the free trial is up.

The moral to the story here is to look before you leap. Reliable, honest and cheap internet access is available, but you must read the fine print and examine just what you're getting. In most cases, you do get what you pay for in accessing the net.

Summary
Cheap internet access? Yes, of course there is. By far, dial up is the most cost effective internet access. If you cannot stand the slow speed, dsl offers reliable service and is very affordable for most people. Cable modem costs a little more, but offers very speedy access and fantastic reliability.