Setting Up An Account With An Isp; Changing Isps - @Xi Computer Corporation Mtower User Manual

Chapter 4, Getting Online

Setting up an Account with an ISP

Changing ISPs

NOTE
When you decide on an ISP, you need to open an account with the company. In
return, the ISP gives you account identification (ID) and a password. Some ISPs
also provide Internet-access software, if such software is not pre-installed on your
computer.
Your ID consists of a name you choose, such as jwbrown. This is your permanent
ID whenever you connect to the ISP. It is copied to the ISP's mail server. It is often
the permanent name of your mailbox (for example, jwbrown@state.org).
In addition to your ID, you will need a password to access the ISP. The ISP will
either create a password for you or let you create your own password. In most
instances you will be able to choose your own password within certain rules, for
example some ISPs require that the password contain more than 8 characters.
Some ISPs also provide you with software for connecting to their computers;
others either let you use software already installed on your computer or require
you to purchase additional connecting software.
Once you have the proper connecting software on your computer and have an
account set up, you are ready to connect to the Internet through your ISP. Dial the
ISP's telephone number and/or perform the appropriate selection steps on your
computer. When you see the login prompts on your screen, enter your ID and
password. As soon as you enter the correct ID and password, the ISP connects you
to its server computer. From there, you can navigate to Web pages and utilize any
other resources that the ISP provides.
If you select an ISP that does not suit your needs or want to make a change for
some other reason, you can do so at any time. Many ISPs advertise for new users
on the Web. You might also find it useful to have a second ISP if one of them is
free.
If you prepaid your ISP account for a year and switch to another ISP, see whether
your former ISP will refund any money for access time not used. For example, if
you prepay an ISP for 12 months of service and switch to another ISP after four
months, check whether your initial ISP will refund your money for eight months of
service
To change ISPs, select a new one and contact the company to set up an account.
Get your ID and password and try out the service. Once you have the account set
up and working to your satisfaction, contact your original ISP to cancel your
account with them.
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