What Is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?

By Jeremy Bowman – Updated Aug 8, 2025 at 9:25 PM EST

Key Points

ISPs connect consumers to the internet using technologies like DSL, cable, and fiber.
Choice of ISP depends on location, needs, and the services offered.
ISPs face challenges like infrastructure costs and the need for cybersecurity.

If you’re of a certain age, the phrase “internet service provider” may bring to mind the sound of dial-up internet service provided by companies like America Online.

These days, the technology behind internet service providers (ISPs) has evolved, but the core product offering is the same. Internet service providers help consumers and businesses connect to the internet.

Loading paragraph...

Internet connections shown across a smart city. — Image Source: Getty Images

Loading image...

Loading paragraph...

Infrastructure

The fundamental facilities and systems necessary for a society to function, encompassing transportation, utilities, and communication.

Loading paragraph...

Best Internet of Things Stocks for 2026 and How to Invest

Learn what the Internet of Things (IoT) is, explore top IoT stocks, and find out if this growing tech sector is right for you.

List of Companies that Alphabet (Google) Owns

Alphabet's acquisitions: transforming tech with YouTube, Android, DoubleClick, and more.

How to Invest in Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT)

Investing in the Vanguard Total World Stock ETF can be a great way to diversify your holdings across numerous stocks and sectors.

Loading hub_pages...

Like other cable providers, Comcast has faced headwinds in the cable industry due to cord-cutting, but it continues to expand its broadband services to new markets in rural areas with the company. It plans to expand its market by 1 million customers in 2023, including both homes and businesses.

Since the internet is an essential utility, it should remain a growth market for Comcast even as its base of cable subscribers shrinks.

However, the methods for providing internet service have evolved significantly since the dawn of the World Wide Web, and they could change again, especially as innovations like SpaceX’s Starlink hit the market.

One thing’s for sure: The internet isn’t going anywhere, and it will remain an essential utility for consumers and businesses.

Loading paragraph...

About the Author

Jeremy Bowman has been a contributing Motley Fool stock market analyst, covering technology, consumer goods, and macroeconomic trends since 2011. Before The Motley Fool, Jeremy was a newspaper reporter, restaurant manager, and English teacher abroad. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Colorado College and a master’s degree in business administration from American University. One of his Motley Fool headlines was briefly featured on Late Night with Stephen Colbert.

TMFHobo

@TMFBowman

Jeremy Bowman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Comcast. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.