• PC World
• » Networking & Wireless

For many broadband users, the novelty has worn off. High-speed Internet access is now just another monthly bill, like electricity or water service. But broadband is different from a traditional utility: There's more to good broadband service than eliminating the wait for a dial-up connection, or loading your favorite Web sites in less than 30 seconds. Are you surfing at the speed you deserve? Are you taking advantage of extra features your ISP provides? In short, are you getting your money's worth?

We'll show you how to test your broadband service to make sure you're receiving the speed you're paying for. We'll tell you how to enjoy the full benefit of the services most commonly available with broadband accounts--from multiple free e-mail in-boxes to Web storage space--that customers rarely or never use. And if you've decided you're fed up with an ISP that can't resolve a nagging problem, we'll tell you what questions to ask as you shop for a new broadband provider, as well as what you need to do to make the transition smooth and (relatively) painless.

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