Internet Service Provider (ISP)

An Internet service provider is a company or other entity that provides Internet access or other technical services related to the Internet to its customers, usually against payment. Other common names for an Internet service provider are Internet Service Provider, Internet Service Provider, Internet Service Provider (ISP) or Internet Access Provider. In the German-speaking world, only the abbreviated term Provider is often used. The main task of an ISP is to provide services that are necessary for the use of the Internet. This includes as the most important service the provision of basic access to the Internet. Furthermore, an ISP also offers optional technical services, both for the use of existing content from the Internet and for the provision and operation of its own content and services on the Internet. An ISP can be a commercial enterprise, which is true in most cases. However, there are also public ISPs whose services are used in schools and universities, among others. Rarely, but also real existing, are non-commercial private providers.

The services of an ISP and the distinctions between ISPs

The range of services is roughly divided into three areas: Hosting, access and content processing. Only very few Internet service providers cover all three areas completely. Most limit themselves to sub-areas, which sometimes only cover a small or even very small part of the overall spectrum. This is particularly true for smaller providers. Larger providers, on the other hand, often provide services that cover a part of all three areas. The most important individual services provided by Internet service providers are - Enabling access to the Internet (access provider) - Providing resources (host provider) - Providing e-mail services (e-mail provider) - Creation and maintenance of web content (content provider) - Operating software on behalf of customers (application service) - Providing server cabinets and rooms (housing and colocation)

Access provider

Internet access provision is the most important service. Different technologies are used by both the end customer and the ISP to provide access. In most cases the dial-up is done via a modem of the end customer (formerly analogue, today DSL). Some end customers believe that it is possible without a modem, because they use a router for dial-up, which also works. However, a router is a combination of two devices that used to be separate and are now conveniently housed in a single enclosure with a common power supply. The two devices are an access point as a central connection of a network and a modem for Internet access. When operating a single PC without a network, a modem alone is sufficient. The modem (router) is then used for communication with the ISP. The ISP's job in providing Internet connectivity is to transfer data packets in IP protocol format to and from the Internet. The transfer can take place via dial-up lines, dedicated lines or radio technology.

Host Provider

For hosting, Internet service providers usually provide a whole bundle of services. These include basic services such as registration and operation of a domain of the end customer, rental of web server software and hardware, including power supply, maintenance and data backup. The scope of services of more advanced web hosting offerings varies considerably. In the simplest case a simple web presence is offered, often with script language support and database backend. More comfortable hosting packages offer additional monitoring, statistical evaluations and, if necessary, ensuring high availability. A web content management system (CMS system), if available, is sometimes included in the scope of services of a host provider. As a rule, however, Internet service providers provide a separate content provider for the use of CMS.

E-mail provider

The most important tool offered by an email provider is the actual mail server, which enables the setup of an email account and organizes and controls the sending and receiving of emails. Optional features include spam filters, virus protection and management functions for your own mailbox.

Content provider

In order to edit and update own editorial contributions or other content published on the Internet, a Web Content Management System (CMS) is usually used by the end user. It offers the necessary functional diversity and enables comfortable working. The CMS software module runs on the server side and is usually offered by the ISP on a rental basis. CMS systems can be operated via a browser and are therefore independent of the operating system. However, the contents are only available for editing and publication as long as a contractual relationship with the associated Internet service provider exists.

Application Service

For a fee, these Internet service providers provide software that is installed on the ISP's servers and that the end customer does not need to worry about maintaining.

Housing and colocation

Server housing is the provision of a data centre for the hosts of a customer (often called server). In housing, the ISP provides server cabinets or parts of rooms including the hardware infrastructure for operation and also provides the connection to the Internet. Colocation refers to the renting of premises or space in a data centre. There own computers can be housed and operated.

Legal basis on provider liability and storage of connection data

An Internet service provider provides only the technologies related to the connection to the Internet. He is not responsible for the content of his customers' websites. However, if an ISP has knowledge of illegal content, he must remove it. Furthermore, in Germany and some other countries he is obliged to store the connection data of his customers for a legally defined period of time and must provide information about his users upon request of law enforcement agencies.

Modern Internet technologies and connection options

An Internet service provider not only relies on traditional DSL connections, but is also continuously expanding its range to include more modern technologies. In addition to conventional access via analog modems or routers, high-performance fiber optic and cable connections are now available that enable fast data transfer rates and stable connections. For mobile users, the ISP also offers LTE or 5G-based solutions that guarantee virtually uninterrupted Internet access even when on the move. These technologies underline the importance of a flexible and future-oriented network infrastructure concept that is tailored to both private customers and business users.

Cloud services, virtualization and managed services

In addition to the classic services in the area of Hosting and E-mail modern internet service providers offer comprehensive cloud solutions. These include the provision of virtual private servers (VPS), cloud hosting and managed IT services, which enable applications and data to be operated securely and flexibly in the cloud. The integration of virtualization and cloud technologies enables companies to reduce costs and scale their IT infrastructure as required. In addition, some providers also offer content delivery networks (CDN) to optimize the loading times of websites and thus sustainably improve the user experience and SEO ranking.

Security solutions and data protection measures

A central aspect of modern internet services is protection against cyber attacks and ensuring data protection. This is why many ISPs are now integrating advanced security solutions such as DDoS protection, firewalls and VPN services into their range of services. These measures not only support compliance with legal requirements - such as the GDPR in Europe - but also offer decisive added value for customers who want to secure their data and applications in the best possible way. The combination of security-relevant services and modern connection technologies ensures high service quality and reliability.