What is an ISP ?

ISP stands for "Internet Service Provider." An ISP is the company who hosts (stores) your website on their large computers called servers.

When your website is ready to be "launched," your web designer uploads your website files from his/her computer to the ISP's computer via the Internet.

Web designers can coordinate the setup of ISP accounts, but each client will be responsible for payment directly relating to your account, so it makes sense to check out your options so you are aware of costs. Web designers can then help you decide which company's packages will suit your needs best.

If your site will include a shopping cart, you will need an ISP who has the secure server capabilities, so that will be a determining factor in which ISP you choose. Other than that, the important aspects to look for are good technical support, customer service, low frequency of "down" times (which you can find out about more by word of mouth than anything) and price.

The following is a list of Internet Service Providers I have worked with and recommend, or check your local phone book for other options.

MCPI