Software is available for almost any computer system, some of the packages cost money and some are free. If you are reading this document you have already discovered the wonders of the world wide web. So you have got a lot of options these days. Obviously a lot of people are also using commercial services such as America On Line or Compuserv to log on.
Charges are about the same as the local companies can offer.
Generally you have webspace with these commercial companies, too. So if you want to set up your own homepage, you already have the space in which to design it. The companies will also provide background images, templates, and tutorials to help with the set up. If you are already enrolled in a university, you should be able to get a free web account through your school. Find the computing services area of your university and apply for a free account.