What does the acronym "ISP" stand for?

The acronym "ISP" stands for Internet Service Provider. An Internet Service Provider is a company or organization that provides individuals and businesses access to the Internet. This involves not only connecting customers to the Internet but also offering services such as website hosting, email, and sometimes additional services like domain registration and cloud storage.

The term encapsulates the role of these providers in facilitating online connectivity, making them essential players in the broader Internet ecosystem. This is particularly relevant as Internet access is fundamental to the functioning of modern networking and communications. Understanding this definition is critical for anyone studying networking essentials, as it lays the groundwork for many concepts in network design, services, and protocols.