Internet Service Provider (ISP) Definition

A company that provides individuals and businesses access to the internet. ISPs make it possible for customers to search the internet, shop online, and connect with family and friends through social media.

ISPs may also provide email services, web hosting, and domain registration. ISPs can be liable for copyright violations for material posted by subscribers and users, but are often protected by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. The Communications Decency Act offers ISPs protection against legal liability for content users post on their platforms, including defamatory remarks and certain types of obscenity.