I want to replace AOL Broadband. I still want broadband but don't see it in the search options. I don't understand those search options except the ones that include the word dialup. Any hints?

Answer:

The reason you don't find any broadband listings is FindAnISP.com only lists dialup services :)

There is very little competition on the broadband business - in most areas, your choices are basically - the Cable TV company and phone company. If you happen to live in an area serviced by Covad or Leading edge, then you might have another choice for DSL other than the local phone company.

AOL Broadband is basically a revenue split between Comcast and AOL - Comcast is your access provider, and AOL provides email and "content". AOL recently announced it plans to drop AOL Broadband - starting with BellSouth.

AOL for a while was pushing the idea that cable companies should be treated like phone companies - that any ISP that wants to provide service over broadband should be able to "rent" the cable TV company's equipment to your house.

That was true, until they took over Time Warner, which happens to own Time Warner Cable TV and Road Runner, and then they suddenly decided that they opposed open access and competition in the cable internet business - I can't figure out why :)

If you don't like any of those choices, you might look around for a local ISP offering "fixed broadband" internet access - basically you put a small box on the roof and bypass both the phone and cable companies. It can work out to about 10 miles from the ISP's antenna, depending on hills, trees, etc...

DSL Reports is the site that has most information about broadband... (dslreports.com)