Many web pages have been written about how to select an ISP. One source of numerous tips is "How to choose an Internet Access Provider". Websourcer Communications recommends (at a minimum) that the following questions are posed to candidate ISPs:

* What are the costs associated with hosting a virtual domain name (start-up and on going)? Is the throughput limited? How many email accounts and aliases are included? How many logon accounts are included, is the logon time metered?

* Can you reach sales and technical support via either a local call or a toll-free number? What are technical support hours? Can I reach a technician on an emergency basis after hours?

* What type of Internet connection does your server have? Do you have 56K modem access?

* What is your ratio of users to modems? Do your users get busy signals or no answer very often?

* How much unscheduled down-time did you have in the last year?

Other questions will be specific to your organization's needs. Do you need Microsoft FrontPage extensions (this may be extra if available)? Will you need a dedicated line (what are start-up costs and on-going)? Do you need a regional or national ISP with various access points that are a local phone call away?

How to find ISPs in your area

Many phone book yellow pages have started an "Internet..." section; this is certainly one old-fashioned source. Another tried and true method is to survey organizations you respect and see whom they use and if they are satisfied. On-line resources include:

Boardwatch: a comprehensive list of over 2000 American and Canadian ISPs organized by state, province and area code.

The List: A Directory of over 5200 worldwide entries. Search by country and within the US and Canada, search by state/province or area code.

thedirectory: thedirectory contains over 7800 ISPs covering 115 countries.

Get professional Internet consultation with Websourcer Communications if you need assistance selecting and negotiating with candidate ISPs

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