To access the Internet from an off-campus location requires the use of an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Ball State University does not endorse specific Internet Service Providers (ISP's).  You will need to choose your own provider and can locate a local ISP by looking in your phone book under "Internet." "Computers -- Internet," or by inquiring at a local computer store. 
       
Speed vs Cost
         
Keep in mind that some ISP offerings require the use of a traditional phone line will have a slower connection rate but will have a lower monthly fee. While you are online, your phone will be busy.

ISP's that provide digital connection, such as xDSL or cable modems, will provide faster connection speeds but are usually more expensive.  When using either of these services, your phone line will not be busy.

Questions to ask when choosing an ISP       

The choice of the ISP depends on your home location, local telephone service, and travel patterns (if you intend to use your computer on the road).  Some questions to ask are listed below:

• Does the service use your phone line or does it have a digital connection?
• Is it accessible from a local phone number?
• Can I use this ISP when I travel on business?  If so, how does that work?
• Does the provider have a 1 (800) or local support service number available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
• What is the monthly charge?
• Is the monthly charge for unlimited service rather than by the hour.

Available ISPs

The ISPs listed below offer service to the Muncie area.  The list was compiled based on ISPs that were available at the time this web page was updated.  It may not be an all inclusive list. You may find other ISPs listed in your phone book.  Ball State does not endorse a specific ISP. 

ATT	Nationwide access, download available.
COMCAST	High speed cable internet service that does not use a phone line.
CoreCom	Nationwide access previously available in Muncie under the names of NetDirect and Voyager.net
Earthlink	Nationwide access, DSL service in select areas, and home network available. See vendor web site for availability.
IQuest	Indiana ISP with Muncie access telephone numbers.
JoiInternet	Nationwide access.
LocalNet	Nationwide access.
SBC	Nationwide access through a partnership with Prodigy.  Offers DSL service.

Free Providers

Several web portals (some of which are listed below) offer free Internet modem access.  These services are normally funded through advertising.  Every site requires registration and most collect personal information to assist in delivery of appropriate advertisements.  Most of these sites place a special advertising window or navigation bar on the user's computer screen.  Not all free internet access providers support the Macintosh.  If you wish to consider using a free ISP be sure to verify that your computer operating system is supported.

Address.com
Juno.com
NetZero.com