Sunday, June 24, 2007

Compare Internet Service Providers

Comparing Internet service providers can be a very big job, especially for someone just starting out online or those with very little previous web experience. Determining the needs of the individual or business is one of the most important aspects of choosing an ISP. When individuals begin a search, they must determine what they will be using the Internet for in order to know what costs they are willing to pay, the speed they will need, and the other services that will be helpful. Businesses will do much the same when completing the process of searching for a provider. They, however, will have to do it on a much larger scale and will often have more areas to be concerned with, including security. Taking the time to compare Internet service providers will mean comparing costs between the companies and types of connections that are available. There are many different connections that can be utilized including dial up, DSL, cable, ISDN, and wireless. Individuals and businesses will have to weight the pros and cons of each type before choosing the best service for their needs.

The reason for using or needing the Internet is one aspect that must be considered when individuals or businesses compare Internet service providers. An individual may have many uses or needs in online service. For a student, this may be used for research and homework options. Also, online courses are offered at many colleges and universities, allowing students to work from any location with online access. Individuals may also need use these resources for home business opportunities. Many businesses based out of the home can benefit from these services. Homes may also use programs for entertainment, personal reasons, news, and other information. Businesses can benefit from technology in many ways also. Some businesses may require access to maintain a website or online business. Other businesses may contact or communicate with clients or customers. Purchasing supplies, products, and other items may also be done with this technology. One of the first and most important items of business to consider when comparing Internet service providers is the needs of the individual or company. These needs will determine the amount of money, speed, and services that are be desired when businesses and individuals compare Internet service providers.

Cost is very important to consider when comparing Internet service providers. There are many different companies that offer many different things with a wide range of costs for these services. Cost will often depend on the speed of the Internet access. Speed will vary between the different types of connections. Many connections will often be much faster than dial up and will usually carry a much higher monthly cost. Dial up is one of the cheapest forms that an individual can purchase. For someone that does not need to go online much or does not do work that requires a quick connection for downloading and uploading, dial up is probably the best option. While it is very slow, it is much less expensive than most other available connections. There are also many companies available that offer dial up service. This is something that is very important to consider when individuals or companies compare Internet service providers.

A DSL connection is another type of connection that many people choose. It is slightly more expensive than dial up and will not be offered in as many areas. It is quite a bit faster than dial up and requires no dialing for a connection. Cable Internet is a very popular choice for many people and businesses because it is readily available throughout the country. There are many companies that offer cable access making it slightly less expensive than DSL. However, there are some major drawbacks to a cable connection. One of the most important of these negative aspects is the security issue. This type of service has many individuals sharing network connections which can cause major security problems if a firewall is not installed on the computer. Other forms or connections that businesses and individuals have to choose from include ISDN and wireless. These are other popular forms, but are not as readily available as the other choices. Comparing Internet service providers will require individuals and businesses to review the many types of connections that are available.

Individuals and businesses will have a very big task when comparing Internet service providers. There are many different providers with many different services to offer. Individuals and businesses must look at what the Internet will be used for. Items such as speed, cost, services, and other items will be considered in this process. Cost will be very important and will vary depending on the needs, desires, and abilities of the company or individual. There are many different choices in connections for people and businesses to choose from when they compare Internet service providers. These choices include dial up, DSL, cable, ISDN, and wireless. Each of these connections will have both positive and negative aspects depending on what the individual or business is looking for. The decision to subscribe to a particular type of connection can be a difficult choice to make and should be done with care and concern. For Christian individuals or businesses, leaning on God and praying for help even in such a small matter can be helpful. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/compareinternetserviceproviders.htm

Christian Filtered Internet Services

Christian Internet services are available to customers of any denomination that would like to do business with an ethical company that offers Christian filtered Internet services. Online services can encompass a variety of areas that include: website designers, website hosting, Page rank services, marketing services, Christian online shopping resources, and communications services. The most popular are the filtered Internet services. These filtered services allow a Christian Internet user to feel safe using the online information by having all the inappropriate pop-ups and websites blocked from the user interface. Online services allow a person to have access to "everything Christian". For example; a user will be able to locate Christian owned businesses to frequent. They will also have access to church and ministry directories, events, and seminars. Prayer chains and prayer room locations can be found with the help of tailored online services.

Christian filtered Internet services usually allow the user high speed Internet access. Typically span and virus email filtering are the most common types of services for both individual homes and businesses. Nationwide filtered Internet services use quality dial-up services for areas that can not be accessed by broadband or DSL high speed options. Recently satellite wireless reception has been added through the use of cell phone and other portable communication methods. In addition to the advances in wireless technology, counties across the United States are incorporating free dial up access via wireless communications for all residents. Christian Internet services will have to compete to provide access based on filtered services and high standards of customer relations. This can be done and successfully if computer services focus on the desires of the consumer.

A good way to research the desires of the consumer is through email, telephone or direct mail surveys. Using a number of 100 people interviewed and being asked the same questions should result in accurate insight into what the consumer hopes to accomplish by purchasing Christian filtered Internet services. Christian Internet services that take the time to survey their consumers to provide better service and a better product will reap the rewards of their efforts. Most people that subscribe to filtered computer services have children in their households. The children appear to be the main reason for the Internet filtering. With so much pornography, and other inappropriate material popping up while surfing the Internet, it is no wonder that filtering services are in demand. Parents of young children do not want to restrict their child's access to the good information that can be found utilizing the Internet, but they don't want them to be exposed to the information that is not at all appropriate for children. Since the Internet is a relatively new phenomenon that is stretched across the globe, regulating its content is easier said than done. Many countries have many different ideas on what is or is not appropriate for their citizens. Censorship may be legal in one place and illegal in another, so there are difficulties in blocking certain material from being seen.

While the United States government keeps a close eye on the Internet, its usage, and its material; it still cannot prevent all bad information from being distributed for all to see. It is up to the parents of young children to monitor their own home's computer usage and to use filtered Internet services to block out trash that may be entering their home through the web. Many businesses are also turning to Christian Internet services for help. In order to be sure that employees are not wasting time on the Internet or allowing inappropriate material to enter into their systems, filtered and blocking services are sought. These services allow a business to monitor their network of computers and keep out the information that should not be tying up an employee's time. Tailored computer services also provide any subscriber with a homepage that can be designed to give a devotional message each day or allows certain faith based information or news to be viewed. Many people of faith appreciate this religion based homepage as well as appreciate the Christian filtered Internet services policy on what can and cannot get through for Internet surfers to view.

It must be understood that no service or software is perfect, and occasionally hackers may get through the Christian filtered Internet services protective blockers. If this happens, a subscriber is told to simply call the service company and give information as to what type of website was allowed to get through the filter. This should be done so that the Faith based computer services webmaster can incorporate the information and add it to the blocking list so future recurrences will not be a problem. It is imperative that subscribers, parents, and the Christian Internet services employees all work together in order to protect the children, and anyone else from inappropriate information being transmitted into their home or office through the use of the Internet. "Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness."


http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/christianinternetservices.htm



Cheap Internet Service Providers

Cheap Internet service providers can be found on the Internet, particularly if you live in a fairly large metropolitan community where many Internet providers offer cheap Internet service for their customers. If you are in a rural community or really small town, your choices may not be very large. Often, one or two providers are available, and they could not be described as cheap. They may be reasonable, but because of the lack of competition and the smaller number of customers, the monthly fee is not terribly low. Those smaller local providers are usually able to offer excellent customer service, which makes the higher fees more tolerable.

One has a better chance of finding less expensive Internet service with dial-up service than with broadband. Prices vary, of course, but where the dial-up Internet service runs about $10.00 per month (although one advertises a price of $4.97 per month), the faster internet service providers will be in the neighborhood of $20.00 per month, or more. There are many Internet sites offering a list of less expensive internet service providers for the consumer to consider and compare, and there is even one that has broken down the providers by state, and within the state by area code, and the cities within that area code who have access to which companies. That site is especially valuable to the new computer owner who is looking for cheap Internet service providers.

If, in your search for Internet service providers, you decide to get a high-speed service, there are three main types: DSL, Cable, and mobile data services. Of these, cable is the most expensive, and DSL requires a telephone line. Comparison of features and costs are available online for those as well. Since buying a computer is still a major cost, getting the best price for Internet service by researching Internet service providers is a must for most consumers. Some Internet service providers offer special services or prices for a limited time to get consumers to try their services. The cheap Internet service provider may discount its price for the first six months, or offer technical support free for a limited time (after which there will be a charge per call). Sometimes there is a rebate offer. Most are now offering free set-up to new customers. The hope is that the customer will like the service so much that he will continue subscribing even after the special has come to an end.

Broadband, or high-speed Internet service is becoming more reasonably priced as its popularity grows. A small modem is added to the computer equipment to accommodate that kind of Internet service, and those have usually come with a hefty price tag. Installation fees could add up to $150.00 or more, and the monthly fees were at least twice that of a dial-up system. Currently, installation is often offered free, and the monthly fees are closer to the cost of the dial-up cheap Internet service. It is particularly difficult for the person whose only use for an Internet connection is an occasional e-mail to pay higher prices for that service. On the other hand, the computer operator who needs to use the Internet for research purposes, and might be willing to pay a little more to get efficiency and speed, still wants to find cheap service when possible. No one wants to throw money away.

Businesses are always interested in finding a service that will allow them to keep in touch with their customers via e-mails or a web site. Internet service allows a business to send out ads via its telephone lines instead of putting advertisements in the paper, or at least not so many, and still reach the customers he wishes to attract. Internet service providers are interested in providing services to both individuals and businesses, and they make sure they are ready to take care of both. They let it be known by placing ads on TV, in the newspapers, and online. Since more and more people are acquiring computers and will be looking for that kind of service, covering all the bases is a wise move.

Whether it is a dial-up or high-speed Internet service you want, if you live in a large metropolitan area you will have little trouble finding Internet service providers who will provide what you need. Once you have compared the companies in your area that provide the cheap Internet service you want and you've made a choice, you will enjoy the communications abilities they provide. It has never been easier to keep in touch with friends and family than it is today with the Internet service that is available. Those who live in outlying or sparsely populated parts of the country will find few or no choices available to them.

In Bible times, there weren't even telephones for communication (much less computers!), yet they managed to get messages passed on. Just think how much Christ taught the people by traveling around the countryside and talking to them. "When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,"

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/cheapinternetserviceprovider.htm

Cable Internet Services

Cable Internet services are a great way to get online in the home and can also be combined with a package that will offer some cable television. Cable Internet phone service is also available and considerably less expensive than traditional telephone services. When looking at these services, consumers need to be able to understand how important it is to choose the right service and service provider while keeping in mind affordability.

When trying to figure out whether these services can be part of one's home, customers need to consider their location. Those who live in a smaller town may find cable Internet services harder to come by. Some companies will only do business with people in certain areas because that is as far as their connections reach. The consumer needs to call around to different companies and find which ones will serve the local area. Many times, customers will not have a choice. Those who live in the country may not even be able to get cable Internet phone service. Therefore, before investing anything, customers simply need to ask whether the company will give business in the local area. More than likely, simply asking for the services will do the trick.

The next thing to consider is the price. Many times cable Internet services will come with a package price for television. Simply getting the web connection will allow customers to have basic cable in the home, but providers will try to offer great deals that also come along with extended television channels. Web telephone service can be free; however it may not always be the best quality. When deciding how to compare prices, consumers need to call the companies and tell them what they are willing to pay. Surprisingly, many companies will work with consumers as they want business and do not want their competitors to gain more profit.

The right cable internet services package will vary from household to household. While technology has moved forward leaps and bounds, it is raw and sometimes unreliable. Switching your phone line to a cable Internet phone service is certainly something to consider when adding cable to your home. Then, as with any decision, people need to bring it to the Lord's table and ask for his advice on what to do. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/cableinternetservices.htm

Business Internet Service Provider

A business Internet service provider can be used for a small home office, a small or middle-sized business, larger enterprises, and hospitality services. These services provide companies with fast speed Internet that enables efficient communications with a customer base. Networking, security, and website hosting are all features that a provider can offer. Internet access that is "on" 24/7 is vital for businesses. Instantly being informed of email messages and faxes can be the determining factor in making a sale. Having a domain name and a website can bring in much more revenue today with the advances being constantly made to Internet technology. Having the security for customers to make purchases online or to keep track of important account records is needed and provided by business Internet services. Another added feature that can be offered is the ability to work through viruses or system crashes. Having file-back ups and secure off-site storage can allow these files can be accessed and retrieved through a variety of ways.

Many companies also offer web hosting; plans are based on website size, traffic, and e-commerce functions. Installation from a business Internet service provider can be achieved quickly and successfully from an outside company or from the company offering these services. It is recommended that those interested in purchasing or utilizing national or regional business Internet services do a pre-check of availability in the area of business. There are many companies that can only offer service around major metropolitan areas. A local provider may not have as many options as a larger national or regional provider, but there may not be a plethora of choices available for a business located in a rural or suburban area. Most geographic locations are able to receive dial-up connections. This is achieved through the telephone lines. Wireless connections, cable, and broadband access are achieved through different means and are not available at many locations.

A provider can also set up an entire office building to have wireless capabilities. In addition to building wide wireless access, business Internet services can allow a network of computers to be connected so all employees within a company can retrieve information through a company wide Intranet system. There are security measures that must be put into place before employees can log in, and most companies have the option of installing tracking devices to be sure that employees are using the network and Intranet for work-related tasks. With the expansion of the Web as a whole, and the options to purchase products online, do banking, email and communicate, and retrieve various information; it is also a concern that employees will spend too much time using the computer for their own personal benefit. Many companies have cracked down and are adding restrictive measures to the freedom of company computer systems.

Companies can also offer an array of other services including website management, and design. Certain design techniques have been proven to attract more clientele and/or consumers. By offering a website design and management package, a business Internet service provider can offer small and large companies alike a one-stop shopping approach to Internet service. A one-stop approach means that there can be one bill and one payment made that wraps all fees and costs of services together for ease of organization and record keeping. It also offers a consistent and familiar sense of the type of company, who their market is for, and what types of budgets they have to work with. A thorough and complete understanding is necessary to receive the maximum benefits of beginning an online marketing campaign, or to keep up with the modern technological times of having a website, utilizing fax and email, and offering online purchases.

Programs offered through providers can range from basic online availability to a full service Web marketing package. Costs for the business Internet service provider will vary dependent upon the inclusive features of a particular plan. The more features offered, the more expensive the monthly fees will be. The fewer options offered through business Internet services, the more inexpensive a plan will be. Each company will have their own individual goals and reasons for wanting to access the Internet. These reasons are as flexible as the plans offered. There should be a plan that exists or one that can be created to allow the maximum benefit to a company without creating an extraordinary overhead. The most important aspect of a business is the integrity and ethics of its founders. All businesses should first and foremost walk in the way of the Lord and conduct their business as such. "That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous. For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it." (Proverbs 2:20-21). Leading a company through the leadership of the Lord is the greatest way to seek success.

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/businessinternetserviceprovider.htm

Broadband Internet Services

Broadband Internet service is now one of the fastest forms of web connection used today. Rather than waiting for the web company to dial up, the modem is constantly connected. Websites take only seconds to load and downloading is extremely fast. In addition, there are exciting new technological advances. The newest advancement is broadband Internet phone service. This allows people to use their connection to make a telephone call to just about anywhere. It's cheap, efficient and spreading like wildfire across both the web connection industry and the telephone industry. Many consumers may be considering signing up for these revolutionary services. When making the decision, it's important to consider both the benefits and the disadvantages so consumers can choose the right services for them.

Many people who use a high speed connection love the convenience of instantly hopping online. They can view videos, download music and look at high-traffic websites with ease. With dial-up, consumers have to log-on and wait for the modem to dial. The connection has to be made, which can take a few minutes. Then, looking at high-traffic, high-bandwidth websites can take longer to load than on the high speed connection. One of the best advantages of using the broadband Internet service is that it doesn't tie up the telephone line like dial-up. Customers don't have to worry about someone picking up the telephone and severing the web connection. Some people avoid this problem by purchasing a phone line just for going online. By adding up the cost of the extra line with the cost of the dial-up service and their special features, one can see that it often adds up to the same rate as this high speed connection.

Price is an issue when it comes to this high speed connection. Broadband Internet phone service tends to cost anywhere from $35 per month to $55 per month, depending on location and what company offers the services. Dial up and other connections can cost considerably less. However, with high speed broadband, customers are paying more for convenience and speed. For those who work at home on the web, this high speed connection can be a major time saver and tends to be highly reliable as well. Overall, there are few disadvantages to getting a faster Internet connection other than price. Plus, customers have the option of getting web telephone as well, saving money on monthly telephone bills.

Broadband Internet phone service is growing quickly because long-distance and international calling is so much cheaper. Web phone connects calls as data through the web. Many local phone companies are now offering Internet phone services while smaller companies are cropping up everywhere to offer these newer telephone services exclusively. For around $15 or $20, customers can get 500 minutes of call time to anywhere, local, long-distance or International. Other services offer unlimited minutes to anywhere for only $25 or $30 per month with many of the same features offered by traditional phone companies. Like the high speed web connection, broadband Internet phone service has little disadvantages. Consumers should just make sure that the company they choose offers 911 access. Most Internet phone companies now connect customers to the nearest 911 station as long as they keep an accurate address on file.

When choosing the right company for these services, the choices may be limited by location and what is available locally. Fortunately, many companies are now taking on broadband as part of what they already offer. Some cable television companies now offer these services. This can save customers a good deal of money because of package deals with the company. Some people may decide, however, to get broadband Internet service from one company and the web phone from another company. Shopping around could turn out to be a better deal. Call and compare prices for both options, as well as quality of service and reliability. Look on the web for reviews of small web connection companies. Those who have the chance should test out the service at the company's location if they have one nearby. Ask people if they would recommend using broadband and if it's worth the extra cost. Their recommendations may help speed up the selection process so hear what they have to say. "Hear now my reasoning, and hearken to the pleadings of my lips"

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/broadbandinternetservice.htm

Best Internet Service Providers

Internet service providers should first be chosen by the individual or business based on needs. It is important for the company or person to know what they need before delving into the world of ISPs. Some important needs to consider when choosing providers will include the speed of the connection, access, and cost. Most importantly, the major use of the service should be considered. If the web is needed for personal use at home, there are very few items that will be crucial. If someone is running a website or performing other business functions online, a high speed connection may be more appealing than dial-up. The best Internet service providers will be able to meet every need.

Access is another important aspect for the individual or company to think about. For an individual using the Internet for personal use, getting access to the Internet from other locations may not be important. For businesses, accessing the ISP from a different state or country may be very important. Security will be especially important for companies that deal with personal records including financial or personal information on a variety of individuals. Choosing ISPs can be made easier when needs are evaluated before the search begins.

The cost can vary greatly from one provider to another and is an important factor to consider for everyone that needs an ISP. An individual or company must determine how much they can or are willing to pay. This expense will change depending on the type of service that is preferred. For high-speed access, the equipment needed and prices are usually much higher than dial-up. If the web is used on a regular basis, however, high-speed access can be much better for the individual or company. When choosing from the best Internet service providers, a comparative cost analysis should be done. Taking the time to compare the costs may provide the business or individual the opportunity to receive the same or similar service for a much lower price. Saving money is very important for both individuals and companies. God calls His people to serve in areas of talent as well as provide for family. With today's technologies it is important to find the easiest services available in order to be able to spend quality time building God-given skills and relationships within families.

A reliable ISP should be a major point of consideration when searching for information. Evaluating the equipment used by Internet Service Providers is one way to view the reliability. It is important to know if the equipment is modern or when the company will upgrade to more modern equipment. The amount of time that the company has been in business can also be useful information. This will allow the consumer to understand if the company is well-known, recommended, or a risk. This information along with the history of the company can be very helpful. Other information, like the security that is provided through the ISP is another factor that may contribute to understanding if an ISP is one of the best. Good Internet Service Providers will offer virus protection software and protection from SPAM.

Choosing can be time consuming, but should be done with great effort and consideration. When choosing between the best Internet service providers, individuals and businesses should first determine their needs. This will often include speed, access, security. Reliability and cost are other important point to consider when selecting from the best Internet service providers. It is very important to know how long a company has been in business, the security they offer, and the equipment that is used.

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/bestinternetserviceproviders.htm

10 Best Internet Service Providers

The best Internet service providers give their customers fast reliable service and offer the customer service that will guide the novice as well as the experienced web navigator through any online issues that may arise. Customer service, quality performance and speed are on the minds of those looking for service providers and there are consumer reviews that will give consumers a list of the 10 best Internet service providers and why these providers have made the top ten list. Before you sign up with any provider, check out the information offered by various consumer reviews to find the quality provider that will be less headache and more browsing time!

When a consumer is choosing the best Internet service provider, or ISP, there are many different factors that can be considered in the decision making process. With the technology available today, the 10 best Internet service providers offer a variety of services and options for online connections. There can also be regional service differences so consumers should be aware of what is available in their area and the various online companies that provide service. Some services piggyback with cable and TV providers. Whether consumers choose DSL or dial-up will also depend upon availability in their area.

Different consumer reviews will rank the 10 best Internet service providers differently, and the results generally depend upon a broad range of consumers and their age, geographic locations, and economic status. Survey results are tallied and statistics are derived from a percentage of those using various Internet providers. Consumers will find that though rankings may differ from one consumer review or survey to another, there are a few of the best Internet service providers that consistently rank at the top with their customers.

Among the top rated online companies, consumers will find that reliability, easy email programs, and additional features are all part of consumer choices. The best Internet service providers offer their customers many different features at low monthly costs to the consumer. Consumers do not like paying for extras, but want services such as chatting, as part of their over-all packaged connection deals.

Most all survey companies and agencies report that America On Line is the largest online service provider in the United States, yet not necessarily the most reliable. Advertising and consumer awareness has made AOL among the best Internet service providers, but popularity is not always the best choice. Consumers are encouraged to thoroughly check out any of the 10 best Internet service providers under consideration before signing up. Find out the details about services and extra costs when researching!

Online access providers that prove worthy of research may include Verizon, SBC Yahoo, Earthlink, Net Zero, Juno, and Cox preferred. Not all of these ISPs are available in all locations, so find out what's available to you first, before taking the time to research each 10 best Internet service providers. There are many other good companies and as technology advances, consumers will be offered the latest electronic advancements and a variety of options.

When researching ISP agencies, read the various consumer and Internet reports available online through the World Wide Web. There are also web sites that not only report on the various ISPs available, but many of these web sites will connect the consumer directly to the ISP of their choice for further information. Log on to the World Wide Web to find out more about what's happening with service providers and their features today.

When looking into gaining the latest technology for your home and family, it is a good idea to keep a healthy perspective about the web and what technology you truly need at your fingertips. Are you a part-time surfer with occasional emails? Or, is your business dependent upon online action and technology speed? These questions should be asked before buying into an expensive computer and advanced Internet services. Obtaining as much information as possible will equip you to make the best decisions about your technology purchases.

The Bible encourages us to get information when making major and minor decisions. The book of Proverbs is full of practical applications for daily living, making the Bible as relevant today as it was over two thousand years ago. "Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom." (Proverbs 13:10) The Proverbs also tell us that all knowledge and wisdom ultimately come from God. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10) As confusing as today's technology and various web connection services are, taking the time to get further knowledge will only help you with your choices and keep you abreast of what's ahead in this information age of technology.

http://www.christianet.com/internetservices/10bestinternetserviceproviders.htm

YOU Telecom buys Gujarat ISP IceNet

MUMBAI: The Citigroup-owned broadband service provider, YOU Telecom, on Saturday announced the acquisition of IceNet, an Ahmedabad-based digital internet service provider for an undisclosed sum.

The development marks the beginning of consolidation in the ISP industry after Trai’s recommendations on new broadband and ISP regime. Various national ISP and telecom companies are said to eyeing similar acquisitions.

IceNet is India’s first and Gujarat’s largest registered ISP in the private space with a presence in corporate sector and VoIP solutions, a statement from YOU read.

YOU Telecom has the technology powered by high breed fibre coaxial cable network, which could create a strong platform to explore existing synergy between the companies, the statement added. “I am very happy that IceNet is merging into a larger entity having national footprint and larger resource pool. I am confident that IceNet and You Telecom together will take this business to a new height,” said Chirag Mehta, CEO & managing director, IceNet.

“We are pleased about this development as it will help us consolidate our reach in Ahmedabad, Baroda and Rajkot... all IceNet subscribers will now migrate on YOU network, thereby increasing our subscriber base. Most importantly, our last mile service will be enhanced to a greater level,” EVS Chakravarthy, CEO, YOU Telecom, added.

With YOU Telecom focussed on providing next generation broadband applications, the acquisition will further boost YOU Telecom’s triple play ambitions as IceNet is a strong player in the VoIP space, primarily data and voice.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/News_By_Industry/Infotech/Internet__Telecom/YOU_Telecom_buys_Gujarat_ISP_IceNet/articleshow/2041794.cms

Are Internet Service Providers blocking blogs?

Bloggers in India are getting together to protest against the sudden blocking of popular Google-owned blog-hosting site Blogger by some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) like Spectranet, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL), Reliance Powersurfer, Airtel Broadband and Sify.

On July 15, Mridula Dwivedi, a teacher of management studies in Gurgaon first discovered that visiting any blogspot blog -- such as, say Mumbai Help -- returned the message, 'Site Blocked!' Her ISP, Spectranet, confirmed they had blocked some sites based on government directives.

J Grewal, Spectranet's Delhi representative at the National Internet exchange of India, told this reporter that, on July 15, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had sent ISPs a list of sites to be blocked. R H Sharma, senior engineer with MTNL, said the list ran into some 22 pages.

Now, several bloggers have organised themselves into a Bloggers' Collective and are planning to file a Right To Information application to obtain the list.

Anil Saxena of Spectranet confirmed that the list sent by the DoT contained names of particular blogs, but added that Blogspot as a whole had not been blocked. This is contrary to the experience of customers like Dwivedi, who are still unable to view sites hosted on Blogspot, in addition to those on Typepad and Yahoo!'s Geocities. "The list is confidential and I can't make it public," said Saxena.

Under the Information Technology Act, 2000, a body called the Computer Emergency Response Team, or CERT-IN, was created along the lines of similar authorities the world over. Although its main task is in the domain of Internet security, it also oversees Internet censorship under a clause that seeks to ensure 'balanced flow of information.' Any government department seeking a block on any web site has to approach CERT-IN, which then instructs the DoT to block the site after confirming the authenticity of the complaint.

Web sites can be blocked if they contain pornography, speeches of hate, contempt, slander or defamation, or if they promote gambling, racism, violence or terrorism.

"Such sites may be blocked within the provisions of the Fundamental Right to free speech and expression, granted in India's Constitution," said cyber-law expert Praveen Dalal, adding, "If, however, the blocking is arbitrary, unreasonable and unfair, it would be in violation of Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution of India."

The trouble is bloggers don't even know which sites the DoT wants blocked. To make matters worse, ISPs seem to be blocking entire domains on which these blogs are hosted.

In 2003, one of the first things CERT-IN did was to approve the blocking of an obscure mailing list run by a banned militant outfit, the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya. Ironically, the popularity and visibility of the list went up by leaps and bounds, despite it being blocked by all ISPs. Many could still see the list via email or proxy surfing.

This time, something similar seems to have happened, to not one but three domains. However, CERT-IN's Director, Dr Gulshan Rai, said he was unaware of the problem and would not be able to respond "off-hand". In a telephone interview, he told this reporter, "Somebody must have blocked some sites. What is your problem?"

Bloggers certainly think of it as a problem though, and are all set to react.

http://in.rediff.com/news/2006/jul/17blog.htm