Second, the files must all be transferred to a host computer called a Web server ant an Internet Service Provider. The host computer can be an Internet Service Provider. Direct connections are more expensive than indirect connections, and more complicated to set up. These ISP's offer a variety of service including e-mail, personal web pages, search engines, technical support, chat rooms, Usenet groups and much more. Click here to get connected through Stony Brook University.
Some online services have monthly fees, others charge by the hour for the time spent on line.
Most have additional charges for special services and few offer discount rates. Most online services can be accessed through local telephone numbers, so that you don't pay for long distance charges, but you should check with yours to be sure. Most offer similar service but each has it's own strengths. Compuserve has the most extensive research tools and data bases, and MAO offers easy to use interface, with resources for children. Delphi is known for it's sense of community.