What is the Internet?How do I select an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?Types of Internet accessWhat to look for in an ISPHow can I make my website successful?How much will a website cost me? What is the Internet?The Internet is a world-wide network of computers providing access to information including text, video, audio, images and files.
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How do I select an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?ISPs are organisations which can offer businesses and individuals access to the Internet, including website and newsgroup access and email accounts. There are several lists of ISPs available in magazines and via the web. However, the Internet industry is a competitive market and service levels and pricing can change rapidly. Visit the Australian Broadband forum at www.whirlpool.net.au for advice or try the broadband guide at www.broadbandguide.com.au.
Types of Internet access
Dial Up internet access is provided via a modem - one end is plugged into your telephone socket and the other end to your computer. You will dial into your ISP this way, which takes up the telephone line while in use.
Broadband (high speed)ADSL: this is a form of broadband internet connection which also plugs into your telephone line and computer but which does NOT prevent you talking on the phone while in use. It’s also known as a VOIP - voice over IP internet connection. You can use the internet AND talk on the phone at the same time.Cable: considerably faster than ADSL but a Cable broadband connection needs its own separate cable coming into the house, or can share your pay TV cable.Wireless: uses radio frequencies to communicate and requires broadband internet connection and a router. It does away with the need to install an expensive cable or fibre infrastructure and is especially useful if you’re mobile. You can use your laptop to access the Internet anywhere in your home and via a wireless network at a client site for example.Satellite: only recommended for users who require high speed internet connectivity but cannot get access to it. Satellite access can be expensive and some services only offer high speed access in one direction.
What to look for in an ISPThere are hundreds of ISPs nationally, all offering various extras with their Internet products. The following issues should be researched thoroughly if Internet access will be crucial to the way you operate your business.
Pricing structure:
There are five pricing structures on offer:
The best option for your business depends on your needs. A "timed" rate is great for casual access, while an unlimited rate is great for businesses who expect to be on the Internet and email constantly - especially if you intend sharing your internet connection with other computers. You should enquire about how easy it is to switch from one payment plan to another and if trial accounts are available. For first time users it is often a good idea to start on an hourly rate arrangement for a few months to gauge usage.
Support:
As you use the Internet, you can become as dependent on it as your business phone or fax. It is, therefore, important that you are assured that the ISP is able to offer you the support required to keep this facility operational for you. Determine when you may need support - is the ISP available to support you? You should find out:
Other factors to consider:
Internet Industry Code of Practice:
The Internet Industry Association of Australia (IIA) has released various Codes of Practice to help consumers and ISPs. The codes aim to provide for industry self-regulation and a basis for confident consumer use of the Internet in Australia. Visit the IIA's website at www.iia.net.au for the latest version of Codes.
How can I make my website successful?
"Success" means a site which is frequently visited and used, and generates activity which helps you to achieve your business goals. Some pointers to what makes a good website include:
See the Search Engine Optimisation for more details.
How much will a website cost me?
Costs vary greatly with the size and complexity of the site. As a rough guide, a basic site will cost about $2,000-$5,000 to design and set up. Your ISP will charge $400-$2000/year to host it. A larger site may cost $50,000-$100,000 to set up with matching annual costs to maintain, including your staff costs.