But the kit involved was relatively expensive and the circuit inflexible. On the Internet, as most now know, it is different. Data is popped in an addressed electronic packet and sent by computer routing instructions to the receiver so each packet shares space on the line with millions of others. This 'packet switching' was the magic staircase to cheaper network services, because the ISP could share the service between all the users. The physical kit was relatively expensive but carried more traffic and additions gave the potential for armies of users.
Big companies pay for direct access - the leased line.
For home users the bridge to Internet land remained the telephone line. Telcos liked the income but were concerned that more people on 'line' for longer could tie up their equipment. This technical issue was combined with regulatory issues and eventually a process allowing for the end user charge to be shared between the ISP and the telco became a possibility. Being a VISP raises your profile significantly. It's like having a constant stream of customers passing through your shop.