In the beginning…there was AOL. Although AOL is one of the highest priced dialup
internet service providers, AOL made it easy for consumers to get instant access
to the internet with little trouble. But now the Internet has evolved, consumers
are comparing internet services and know they can get those same features
elsewhere for pennies. If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of the
several thousand AOL subscribers ready to switch to a new ISP – saving money and
getting better service. We’ll help you to compare internet services, and choose
the right one for you.
Value and Features
Before you cancel AOL, we recommend that you first setup an account with your
new service provider to ensure uninterrupted access to the Internet. It might be
best to come up with a list of benefits you’d like and compare Internet service
providers that best match your needs. Listed below are the most essential
features to look for – especially for dialup.
Access Numbers Available
When you compare Internet services, make sure the dialup internet service
provider you choose has local access numbers in your area (to avoid toll charges).
Many dialup providers have thousands of access numbers available for you to use
nationwide. This will also allow you access to the internet from hotels, family
or friends house, etc. Cable and DSL can only be used at your home where you
have it installed. If you expect to travel this could be the most important
feature. You may also want to look for access numbers on different networks with
roaming access, and v.92 modem capability.
Email
At a minimum, ISP’s should offer one email address using a POP3 server to
receive email and SMTP access to send email.
Other Email Features to look for:
• Extra email addresses
• Email storage space - How much space does your inbox have before incoming
email is rejected?
• Use of IMAP email servers
• Email Virus Protection
• Email Spam Filtering
• Webmail - access to your email address over the Internet
• Size of attachments allowed
Internet Security/Firewall protection
Several ISP’s now offer firewall protection, pop-up blockers, virus protection,
and parental controls. These are now industry standard features, and should be
available.
Upgrade Options
When you signup for Internet service, will you always be happy with the same
service? Compare Internet service providers to see which ones offer an array of
technologies you may want in the future – making upgrades easy.
Here are some evolving technologies to consider:
• VOIP (Voice Over IP)
• Broadband – for home or office
• Website hosting services
Hours of Usage
Dialup Service providers generally charge based on the number of hours of usage
per month. Monthly access of 100 hours is typical for baseline dialup internet
service. However, look for dialup service with the option of unlimited access
and full bandwidth during peak hours
Availability
Availability is a common problem among dialup service providers. One of the most
common complaints is that dialup access disconnects frequently. However, more
access numbers mean more reliability and fewer toll charges to the user.
Other Features to Look For:
• Internet Accelerator
• Quality Phone Support
• Exclusive Content
• Extra Disk Space
• Internet Call Waiting
• Parental Controls
• Personal Web Storage Space
The chart below is a great checklist to use when comparing dialup service
providers, and how one vendor (PeoplePC) measures up. If the website you’re
visiting isn’t clear, it helps to call. Keep in mind, when comparing service
providers, most dialup providers offer the features below at very low price-points
and have higher customer service ratings than AOL.
| Unlimited Internet Access |
 |
| PeoplePC Internet Security Pack |
|
| PC Anti-Virus |
|
| Anti-Spyware |
|
| Firewall |
|
| Phisher Protection: Scamguard |
|
Accelerator Technology
Speeds up to 5x faster! |
|
| Smart Dialer technology |
|
| Internet Call Waiting |
|
| Pop-up Blocker™ |
|
Virus Protection
powered by Symantec® |
|
| More local access numbers than the "big" guys |
|
| Free email technical support |
|
| Email with spam controls |
4 email addresses |
| Email storage |
100 MB |
| Email attachments: up to |
10 MB |
| Outlook Express/Pop 3 Access |
|
| WebMail - Access email from anywhere with a web connection |
|
| Instant Message Center with AOL, MSN, and other IMs |
|
|
