Key Takeaways
- ISP stands for Internet Service Provider.
- They assign your Public IP address.
- They can see which websites you visit (DNS logs) unless you use encryption.
- The internet is built on a hierarchy of Tier 1, 2, and 3 ISPs.
Your Internet Service Provider is your gateway to the world. But they also hold the keys to your online data.
The Gatekeeper
An ISP (Internet Service Provider) is the company you pay to access the internet (like AT&T, Comcast, Orange, BT). Without them, your devices cannot reach the World Wide Web.
ISP Tiers
Not all ISPs are equal. The internet is a "network of networks".
- Tier 1: The backbone of the internet. They own the undersea cables and massive infrastructure (e.g., Lumen, Tata). They peer with each other for free.
- Tier 2: They pay Tier 1 providers for access and sell that access to Tier 3 providers or large businesses.
- Tier 3: Your local ISP. They buy access from Tier 2 and sell it to you, the consumer.
Privacy Trace
Your ISP sees everything you do unless you use encryption (HTTPS/VPN). They know every website you visit, when, and for how long. In many countries, they are required by law to store this data for years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I hide my history from my ISP?
Yes. Using a VPN Encrypts your entire connection, so your ISP only sees "scrambled data" going to a VPN server, not the final destination. Using DNS over HTTPS (DoH) also helps hide your website requests.
What is ISP Throttling?
Throttling is when your ISP intentionally slows down your speed. This often happens if you use "too much" data, or sometimes specifically for streaming services (like Netflix) to manage network congestion.
Who is your ISP?
Check My ISP Details