Taken from PCWorld Magazine, April 2012 Edition

All Internet connections may seem the same, but you can find some differences – beyond price – between Internet service providers, and between the types of connections that an ISP offers. Here are tips on choosing an ISP and the connection that best suit your small or mid size business.

Internet Connection Types:
DSL – generally the cheapest connection type, uses traditional telephone lines, can support a dozen typical users.
Cable – usually faster than DSL, uses standard television cable, fast enough for a few dozen users.
Fiber – superior performance, can be expensive, great for more than 24 users and VOIP phone systems.

Bandwidth Speed:
ISPs offer different service levels or plans for each connection type. The main point of distinction between levels is the bandwidth speed. Choosing a suitable speed is one of the key decisions that you must make. Generally, the greater the number of people who’ll be using your connection, the more bandwidth you’ll need. In addition, the more performance-intensive your users requirements are (streaming video or VOIP phones) the more bandwidth you will need.

Bandwidth Cap:
Some ISPs have begun to cap data usage. Under a data cap, if you exceed the data transfer limit during a billing cycle, the ISP may automatically throttle back your speeds for the remainder of the cycle, or it may apply a surcharge to your bill.

The Fine Print:
Read the fine print of a service provider’s contract before signing up. The prices most companies post online are conditional: Many require contracts of 1 to 2 years to get the advertised monthly rate.

Equipment/Installation Fees:
Consider the hardware each ISP provides. Some services furnish nothing more than a basic model; others may give you a gateway that includes a router or even built-in WiFi. Some companies provide free installation and activation, but most make waiving the associated fees contingent on accepting a contract.