What Is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?

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.

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

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Infrastructure

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

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Investing in Internet of Things Stocks

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.

Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT): How to Buy

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

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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.

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