Major web portals like Excite, Yahoo, AltaVista, and NetZero, as well as traditional retailers such as Kmart, offer this service, which is particularly valuable if you need connectivity from outside Columbus or within North America. You can usually connect at the cost of a local call because of the extensive coverage area of these providers. There may be privacy issues because providers may monitor and collect data on surfing habits for advertising purposes. Check each ISP's privacy policy. The data is usually collected only at the aggregate level, so it would not be tied to identifiable users.
Cable modems work over coaxial cable television wiring provided by cable television companies.
The service is usually offered at a monthly premium. Road Runner cable modem service is available locally through Insight Communications and Time Warner Communications. DSL provides speeds up to 50 times faster than a 28.8 modem and connects to your existing copper telephone line. DSL does not tie up phone lines and you are instantly connected without encountering dial-up busy signals. DSL is expected to replace ISDN in many areas and to compete with the cable modem for Internet service to homes and small businesses.