The dial-up Internet connection is just an introductory method but it got popular, based on the over-all number of subscribers who pay-by-month. When the DSL and cabled Internet connection methods rose to popularity, the dial-up started to lose its shine.

Before you make a decision on what Internet service provider you'll get, you must consider some factors first. If you're an experienced Internet user, you may just want something simple. But if you're a novice to such modern technology, it pays to be extra careful. There are many service providers out there and you just might get lucky and receive an offer for a free access to the Internet.

Here are some helpful tips when choosing an Internet service provider:

1. List down your reasons why you use the Internet. If you just need a connection which you can get information from or just a way to communicate; i.e., email, talk or chat, you can safely choose the simplest type of Internet service. Now, if you haven't experienced Internet yet but want to learn through your own service, you may need a service with more features easily controlled by mouse.

2. Make an extensive research first. If you are looking for an Internet connection with all the fancy features; i.e., bells and whistles every time something occurs on the Internet or even when an email arrives (whether through Yahoo! or Google's Gmail). Pay more attention on the payment plans. There are providers who offer basic services complete with features at a very low monthly payment. And there are those that will charge you with sky-high bills for your Internet connection.

3. Assess the length of time you will use the Internet. You may want to stay with your old dial-up service connection if you'd be using the Internet for just a few hours every day. Dial-up users are offered by providers with a variety of choices regarding fee plans. One of these options is ideal because you'll pay a low-priced monthly fee for a service type which allows users Internet access for only a few hours per month. Why get an unlimited and much pricey Internet connection when you will use it for several hours only a day?

4. Check this out if you want a free Internet connection. The subscribers to DSL and cabled connections, and other Internet service providers are allowed to use America Online without charge. You must remember not to use their own connection though and you do not dial access though any AOL lines. For not changing your email address, AOL will throw in a few more services at no charge. You will get free downloading of virus scanner, pop-up blocker, and spam blocker programs. As the most well-known service provider in the US, AOL can afford to offer free Internet service to users with their connection because its income is generally generated from advertising profits rather than the revenue from subscriber.