ISP Access: Netscape ISP Service

Netscape ISP Internet Service is giving away Web Accelerator for free. Netzero simply can't complete with Netscape giving away high-speed accelerated Internet dialup service using special technology to compress Web page data. The end result? You get speeds up to five times that of normal dialup Internet service.

Netscape is part of the AOL empire, but is purely focused on the "value" side of the equation, as far as Internet Service Providers go. That means it competes with NetZero, Juno, PeoplePC and a couple other ISPs who offer dialup at low cost.

To stand out from the crowd, Netscape offers not only cheap Internet access, but access to some of America Online's special deals. It also provides one email address and Webmail access. But not much else -- not that this is a bad thing.

As a cheap ISP, Netscape provides the full Internet service provider experience while holding back on features that value-oriented folks don't want. But if you never need support, you've saved the money that most Internet Service Providers charge everybody to keep a support staff.

Netscape also boasts an established brand and thousands of national access numbers. It also offers a simple portal/start page with news and information and Google search.

Netscape does the value Internet thing right -- it gives you stripped-down Internet access without additional features that cost extra. That makes it a good deal for Internet veterans, or users who don't need online services like those offered through America Online or Verizon DSL with MSN.

However, if you're used to one of those Internet services, or your family needs additional email addresses, or features like spam protection or anti-virus software, it might be worthwhile to check out some of the other ISPs.

As it stands, Netscape provides solid ISP value at a low cost, comparable to the other cheap Internet providers. Netscape Internet service is a deal if you're looking for bare-bones Internet access without paying for features you don't need or want -- but not if you're looking to dazzle your family with multimedia. I find myself recommending it to friends who want to get on the Web and do simple emailing without investing in a major service like AOL -- for them, it fits the bill nicely.

Great-ISP-Deals.com gives Netscape... three stars! A great value!