Internet Service Provider - ISP

An Internet Service Provider - commonly referred to as an 'ISP', is a company which provides individuals and organisations with access to the Internet, plus a range of standard services such as e-mail and the hosting (running) of personal and corporate Web sites.

The larger ISPs will offer a range of access methods including telephone, leased line, ISDN or the newer DSL (ADSL) circuits and will be connected to 'backbone' high speed digital circuits which form the Internet itself.

ISPs usually charge a tariff for their services although income can be derived from various sources of advertising and portal activities.

Occasionally an ISP are referred to as IAP - an Internet Access provider.