While the Stanford modem pool does provide access to the full range of SUNet services, many users only require e-mail and Web access. A local ISP could be a much cheaper option. Additionally, many ISPs provide regional 800 or local access telephone numbers, or local access numbers for free dial-in access when subscribers are traveling. If you only require Internet access and live a distance from Stanford, an ISP could be a cost effective alternative to Stanford's Remote SUNet Access option. Even ISP services provided at the higher ISDN and DSL speeds could be a more economical option for you.
Users experience the same computing options that they enjoy when they are on-campus.
Actual Speed ISP subscribers are required to use telnet or ftp to access Stanford computers. Telnet and ftp are much slower than a direct connection through Stanford's Remote SUNet Access. Users of Stanford's Remote SUNet Access services experience a more even and constant transmission speed. ISDN or DSL service through an ISP may require hops through multiple routers to reach Stanford. Stanford's Remote Access via DSL provides the most direct virtual circuit connections to Stanford computing resources.