Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

Most companies obtain IP address blocks from ISPs. ISPs connect our data network to the Internet. ISPs have their own set of internal data networks to manage Internet connectivity and to provide related services.

ISP Tiers

ISPs are designated by a hierarchy based on their level of connectivity to the Internet backbone. Each lower tier obtains connectivity to the backbone through a connection of a higher tier ISP.

Tier 1

Tier 1 ISPs are at the top of ISP hierarchy. They are directly connected to Internet Backbone. The primary advantages for customers of Tier 1 ISPs are reliability and speed. There are less opportunities for failure or traffic bottlenecks as Tier 1 ISP customers are only one connection away from Internet.

Tier 2

Tier 2 ISPs get their internet services from Tier 1 ISPs. So, the internet bandwidth and reliability are lower than Tier 1 ISPs.

Tier 3

Tier 3 ISPs purchase their internet services from Tier 2 ISPs. Generally, the internet bandwidth and reliability are lower Tier 1 and Tier 2 ISPs.