Loans can be for any purpose. Whatever the reason, the World Wide Web will provide you with the means to easily compare and contrast loan rates, features and conditions and will also simplify the process of applying, with approvals often being given in minutes.

How do you go about using this valuable resource? The place to start is determining what kind of loan you require and how much you can afford to borrow. Basically, you have to choose between a unsecured loan, normally used for purchases such as a car or a holiday, and a secured loan which is generally taken out either to consolidate your debts or to make a home improvement. Currently, UK interest rates are generous for both types of loan. In addition, Internet only financial institutions often give better rates or features than High Street banks because they cut costs by cutting out the middle man.

Once you have decided what kind of loan you need, you should use the Internet to carry out research. Although you can use search engines to find different loans, it's easier to find a site which has done your legwork for you and presents a spread of different UK companies and loan rates in an easily digestible format. An example of this would be Zenloans.co.uk that focuses entirely on secured loans thereby saving time.

You can also use online loan calculators to help you find out exactly how much your monthly repayments will be, with and without payment protection. A basic loan calculator can be found on the loans page of Creditmarket.co.uk which can give you approximate repayment figures.

When you have chosen the loan product you want, you can also apply online. Because of various scare stories about computer security, a lot of people are wary about giving their details online. However with some preparation and a bit of knowledge you can ensure that your online transactions are just as safe as your offline ones. (See our tips on online security).

First, make sure you have all your personal details to hand – name, address, phone number (including your mobile phone) and your email address. You should also have your financial details worked out – how much you want to borrow, over what period and what your current salary (individual or joint) is and, if you are taking out a secure loan, what the current estimated value of your house and the current amount outstanding on your mortgage is. You will also need details of other loans and credit cards with outstanding amounts and the level of monthly repayments.

It is also important to choose a unique password for your account as many companies give you computer access to your loan account using your email address and password as security. They may also use other details such as your mother's maiden name, a memorable date or address. Your password should be made up of small and capital letters and numbers and be at least 8 characters long. Don't use the same password for other accounts. Write it down and store it safely.

Once you have filled in the details, in the majority of cases, you will be informed online within minutes if your loan is accepted. You will be sent a form to sign with the details which you should sign to confirm. If there is an error, either contact the company by phone or go online to correct them. Don't change the loan agreement form as this will invalidate your loan. As with all credit agreements you have 14 days to change your mind.

Hopefully, you too will find that using the Internet is the best and easiest way to meet your borrowing needs.

Information courtesy of Creditmarket.co.uk, one of the UK's favourite online providers of credit cards, loans and mortgages.