An access provider is any organization that arranges for an individual or
an organization to have access to the Internet. Access providers are generally
divided into two classes: Internet access providers (ISPs) and online service
providers (OSPs). ISPs can be local businesses that pay for a high-speed
connection to one of the companies (such as AT&T, Sprint, or MCI in
the U.S.) that are part of the Internet. They can also be national or international
companies that have their own networks (such as AT&T's WorldNet or IBM's
Global Services). OSPs, sometimes just called "online services,"
also have their own networks but provide additional information services
not available to non-subscribers. America Online is the most successful
example of an OSP.
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