D. INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS (ISPs)

An Internet service provider (ISP) is a provider that has a permanent connection to the Internet and offers its customers the opportunity, in return for a subscription fee, to use its infrastructure to connect to the Internet. It also manages related services: email addresses, web hosting, Voice over IP (VoIP), and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV).

1. Role of the ISP

The ISP handles data transfer between the Internet and the user as follows:

· The user sends a request (e.g. to access a website).

· The request is sent to the ISP, which then queries the relevant server via the internet.

· The ISP forwards the response received from the remote server to the user.

The ISP connects to the internet via internet exchange points (IX — Internet Exchange), where it interconnects its network with other operators (peering), or via transit agreements.

Fig. 7 — Role of the ISP: intermediary between the user and the remote server

2. Choice of the ISP

The criteria for choosing an ISP are:

· Local coverage: urban or rural area, eligibility for FTTH fibre, distance to the local exchange for ADSL, 5G availability.

· Technical performance: guaranteed or ‘up to’ download/upload speeds, latency, uptime (SLA).

· Price plans: installation fees, monthly subscription charges, equipment provided (multi-service box), minimum contract term.

· Services included: unlimited calls, a selection of TV channels, a 4K set-top box, and cloud storage options.

3. Available connection types