#Internet access
6 messages in this thread
I know this is not the internet forum, but I am posting here because I think
the reply will be more non-biased than if I place it in the internet forum. How
does an entity get access to the internet? For instance, how does Compuserve
get access to the internet in order to provide it as a service to you and me?
Why is it not possible to connect my PC into the internet without going through
a service? Thanks.
-James Franssen
> Why is it not possible to connect my PC into the internet without
going through a service? <
Anyone can connect to the internet directly, provided they have the
knowledge and dollars to do it. The prime criteria is the
installation of a fiber-optic connection to the nearest domain
server. You'll have to pay for all the cabling and installation.
Needless to say, this is prohibitively expensive. Services allow
users to connect to their server via modem, which in turn uses their
fiber connection to the rest of the net.
Fun networking buzzword: BIFF: Backhoe induced fiber failure. (I
witnessed these first hand during my days at WMU).
>> Anyone can connect to the internet directly, provided they have the
knowledge and dollars to do it. The prime criteria is the installation of a
fiber-optic connection to the nearest domain server. <<
Thanks for the reply James! Is there a list anywhere that would tell
me where the fiber-optic lines that already exist are? I mean, could
I go down to my local utility service and ask for a map to see where
a good location may be to place a server? And also, what would it
take to connect a PC to a line like this, or would I need a SGI
Crimson, or something of this sort? Thanks.
>> could I go down to my local utility service…
You'd probably need to call a telecommunications consultant and plan on
-THOUSANDS- of dollars for hardware and a data grade transmission line hookup.
If you are looking for a "home page" of your own, many providers will
do it for you at around $100 per month.
To simply get on-line, check out INETNEW forum (I think) for info
about CIS access to the net, or buy one of the off-the-shelf net kits
and call a local service provider. (I'd guess that this is
comparable in cost or slightly more than compuserve.)
> Is there a list anywhere that would tell me where the fiber-optic lines that
already exist are? <
I'm sure there is, but I haven't a clue where you would find it.
> I mean, could I go down to my local utility service and ask for a
map to see where a good location may be to place a server? <
Not likely. Since the network is international, you'll probably need
to contact a much larger organization. I know that the Michigan
extention of internet is called Michnet. You may have one for your
state too. These folks could probably point you in the right
direction for a hookup.
> And also, what would it take to connect a PC to a line like this, or
would I need a SGI Crimson, or something of this sort? <
The server doesn't matter. The connection equipment does matter. The
simplist communications hardware would probably run about $10K.
Besides that, you'll need permission from your city to install the
cabling – a major nightmare. We're talking about taking a backhoe
through neighboring properties to lay in a fiber cable. Maintaining
such a connection can cost in the thousands per month. If you're
serious about becoming your own domain site, I'd check with your
local big university for recommendations on how to proceed. Like
technicolor, my knowledge of the subject "ends here". <bg>
Hello,
I don't know what everyone here is talking about! I am an electro-optics
engineer and were involved in projects at the inception of the net. You DO NOT
have to have a fiber connection. You do have to have a provider connection.
It is also expensive. But, if you're looking to become a provider or have net
access for youron!
E-mail me if you have questions.