Dial - up, DSL, cable, wireless, satellite—with so many Internet options available, it can be difficult to decide which is best for you and your family. Your location and style of usage will affect this decision, as well as price and start - up cost.

Dial - up is the cheapest, most widely available form of Internet access. If you have a phone line and a modem (standard equipment on most systems), you have access to dial - up. Most dial - up providers charge less than $25 per month, with some providers charging as little as $10. The drawback to dial - up access is its speed: S - L - O - W. If you plan to use the Internet for downloading pictures, videos, or music, you should be aware that these tasks will require large blocks of your time. Also, unless you have multiple phone lines, callers will be unable to reach you while you are on the Internet.

For those who live in areas served by cable television providers, cable Internet access is an option. One advantage of cable access is that it doesn't block your phone line; also, it enables you to download at much higher speeds. You will need to budget more for this kind of access, however—sometimes $40 - $45 per month. Also, you must purchase equipment up front to receive the access. You can contact your local cable provider for more information.

Another option, one that is also limited by location, is DSL. DSL uses the regular phone line, but a different part of its bandwidth, so it doesn't interfere with your phone line. The purchase of special equipment is required, and cost is comparable to that of cable access. If you live too far from the nearest DSL exchange, you will be unable to receive this service. DSL provides high - speed service. Most local phone companies offer DSL access.

For those who live in rural areas and are unable to receive cable or DSL access, satellite Internet may be the best option. If you have a clear view of the southern sky, you can receive satellite access. Satellite provides higher speeds and keeps your phone line open. Start up costs are greater than those of cable and DSL, and the monthly charge is also sometimes higher. Satellite access is offered by companies who provide satellite television, such as DirecTV and Dish Network.

One final option, one that can be used by both urban and rural residents, is wireless access. Wireless providers use towers to broadcast Internet access to users. The access is high speed, and costs are comparable to cable or DSL. Users are limited only if they do not have a clear view of the tower (i.e., if trees, hills, or other structures impede the signal). Providers can test your location to determine whether or not the signal can reach your location. Again, a slight start - up cost is involved.

If you still are uncertain about the best Internet option for you, computer specialists can help with the decision. With a little research, you can ensure that your are using the best option for your Internet access.