Its default web browser has been unfriendly toward installing plugins and certain scripting languages that may be necessary for taking an online class. Upgrading to a less proprietary web browser such as Netscape has proven confusing for many AOL users. In short, OSPs such as AOL may not be the most convenient choice of service for online learners. The good news is that users do not have to limit themselves to a single service provider. They can retain all the interesting offerings of their AOL accounts while using a more typical ISP for other purposes, such as online classes.
Learners can install and maintain multiple services.
This was in addition to paying the phone company the price of a call. A recent development on the Internet is the rise of 'Free' ISP's. Such services allow users to dial into them and access the Internet for no cost. They tend to make their money by gathering marketing information on the user and forcing users to view targeted advertisements. The ads aren't such a bad deal other than they can impact screen space when they float over the browser window.