ISP (Internet Service Provider): Function in Networking

What is an ISP? ISP (Internet Service Provider) is the main key in connecting users to the internet through various types of services such as cable, DSL, wireless, satellite, and cellular networks.

ISP Meaning

ISP meaning Internet Service Provider. ISP is a company or organization that provides internet access services to users. ISP acts as a connection between internet users and the global internet network as well as several additional services such as email, domain registration, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, and so on. and web hosting. ISP also provides several services such as infrastructure, hardware, and internet connections needed for users to connect to the internet via cable, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), fiber optic, wireless, satellite, or cellular networks.

How ISP Works

ISPs will be connected to one or more high-speed lines. ISPs themselves are independent of the telecommunication services used, with larger ISPs having high-speed lines and thus being able to provide better services to customers. ISPs are connected to the backbone network, which is the main infrastructure that connects ISPs to each other and provides access to various content and services around the world. Connection to the backbone network allows ISPs to provide global access to users.

Function of ISP

ISP (Internet Service Provider) has many main function in providing internet access to its user. The following are the main function of ISP:

Internet Access Provider

The main function of an ISP is to provide internet access to users. They offer different types of internet connections, such as cable, DSL, fiber optic, wireless, or mobile networks, for users to connect to the internet.

IP Address Provider

Every device connected to the internet requires a unique IP (Internet Protocol) address. ISPs assign IP addresses to users so that their devices can be identified and communicate with other devices on the internet.

Network Management

ISPs are responsible for managing the network infrastructure they own. They build and maintain the physical network, hardware (such as routers, switches, and servers), and software needed for users to connect to the internet smoothly.

Additional Service Providers

In addition to internet access, ISPs also often provide additional services to users. These can include web hosting services, online storage, email, VoIP, security services, and so on. These additional services expand the functionality that users can use on top of basic internet access.

Customer Service Providers

ISPs usually provide customer support to assist users with technical issues or provide information about the services they offer. Customer support can be a phone service, live chat, or a ticketing system to handle questions, complaints, or technical issues that arise.

It is important to note that the roles and functions of ISPs may vary depending on the type and size of the ISP, as well as the legal and regulatory environment in the country where they operate.

Also Read : Telnet Protocol

Advantages and Disadvantages

The following are pros and cons of ISP

Advantages

ISP has many pros or advantages, some of them are

Wide Internet Access

ISPs provide broad and equitable internet access, so users can easily connect to the internet from various locations. They build and manage network infrastructure that covers a wide area, including urban and rural areas.

High-Speed

ISPs strive to provide high internet speeds to users. They are constantly developing new networks and technologies to improve the speed and quality of service, so that users can enjoy a better internet experience, such as streaming high-quality videos or playing online games without lag.

Stability and Availability

ISPs work hard to maintain the stability and availability of their networks. They perform regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent or repair network disruptions. This ensures that users can connect to the internet stably and without interruption meaning users can access internet services at all times.

Disadvantages

ISP has many cons or disadvantages, some of them are:

Geographical Limitation

Not all areas or locations in a country or region have the same good internet access coverage. There are areas that are difficult to reach by ISP infrastructure, such as rural or remote areas. This causes limited internet access for residents in these areas.

Speed Depends on Network Load

The internet speed promised by ISPs may vary depending on the time of day and network load. At certain times, when many users are using the internet at the same time, the internet speed may slow down due to high network load. This can reduce user experience and make service quality inconsistent.

Network Disruption

Although ISPs try to maintain network stability, it is still possible for network disruptions to occur that cause temporary disconnection of internet access. This can happen due to hardware malfunctions, technical issues, or natural disasters affecting the network infrastructure. Such disruptions can disrupt internet connections and users’ access to online services.

Also Read : SSL Protocol

Types

There are several types of ISPs based on how they provide internet access and the types of services they offer. Here are some common types of ISPs:

ISP Cable

Cable ISPs use coaxial or fiber optic cable infrastructure to provide internet access. They usually provide high-speed internet access through existing cable television cables in homes or buildings.

ISP DSL

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) ISPs use regular phone lines to provide internet access. They utilize DSL technology that allows the transmission of data over a telephone line that is different from the voice line. DSL ISPs can provide relatively fast internet access, depending on the distance between the customer and the ISP’s service center.

ISP Wireless

Wireless ISPs provide internet access using wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi or other wireless technologies. They use base stations and antennas to transmit wireless signals to customers’ devices, enabling wireless internet access. Wireless ISPs are commonly used in rural areas or areas that are hard to reach by wired infrastructure.

ISP Satellite

Satellite ISPs use communication satellites to provide internet access. They transmit signals to and from satellites in Earth’s orbit, which are then received by satellite dishes in customers’ homes or buildings. Satellite ISPs are typically used in remote areas or areas where other infrastructure is not available.

ISP Cellular Network

Mobile network ISPs provide internet access over mobile networks such as 4G or 5G. They use existing mobile network infrastructure to provide internet access through SIM cards and mobile devices.

In addition, there are also ISPs that provide specialized services such as business ISPs that offer specialized internet services for companies, public ISPs that provide internet access in public places such as cafes or parks, and specialized ISPs that provide internet services for specific purposes such as internet access on cruise ships or airplanes. It is important to note that the types of ISPs available may vary depending on the country, region, and the level of development of information and communication technology infrastructure in a place.

Find out more about the introduction of ISPs at Private Campus in Jakarta to broaden your in-depth technical and networking understanding.

References

https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/ISP-Internet-service-provider

Author : Hassan Rizky Putra Sailellah | Editor : Meilina Eka Ayuningtyas