There are many internet service providers located throughout the New York City boroughs of Manhattan, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The internet service provider companies deliver internet access in the three most common methods of Dial Up, DSL and Cable. Availability of each type of method of internet access is limited and varies with location.

Some internet service providers that provide dial up internet access in New York City are AOL, Mfire, Juno, Netzero, Earthlink and MSN. Some of these companies also provide premier or faster dial up access. These Internet service provider companies have many local access numbers for users to connect to for free. In certain high density areas such Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens, dial up access is most likely the most suitable choice, especially for residential users. Dial up requires only a telephone line while infrastructure for broadband internet such as fiber optics and other cables is simply not available and very difficult to build.

There are numerous companies located in parts of New York City that offer DSL service. It's recommended that a user look for the nearest office of a DSL internet service provider, since delivery of DSL is limited to a certain distance.

Some of the Cable television companies may provide broadband internet service throughout New York City. Customers of cable TV can check with their local service provider if internet access is offered, and it will be delivered through the cable line. Some well known cable internet providers in the New York City area are Cablevision whose internet service is called Optimum Online, and Time Warner, whose internet service is called Road Runner. Verizon Fios is also a broadband internet service that can be categorized under “cable” internet. Actually, all three companies deliver television, internet and phone services.