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Rev Up Your Net Connection

29 ways to keep your cable, DSL, satellite, or dial-up modem link cruising--and maybe even find a new gear.

Kirk Steers

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Fast Tips

Do Your Homework

Cable, DSL, Satellite, WirelessInstalling high-speed access is like getting your car repaired: The more you know, and the more you're involved, the likelier you are to achieve fast, efficient results. Take some time before the installation to research your connection method; in addition, try to ascertain the transmission speed you can expect, the problems you're likely to encounter, and the reputation of your service providers. See our " Supercharged Surfing" chart for sites offering this and other useful information.

Is Newer Better?

Dial-UpAnyone using a modem that runs at 33.6 kbps or slower should buy a new modem. If you use a 56-kbps V.90 modem, however, there's little reason to upgrade to a V.92 modem. Though the new V.92 standard does offer faster dial-ups, quicker uploads, and support for call waiting, it doesn't substantially improve data download speed. And for the new features to work, your ISP must also support V.92, which ISPs aren't exactly rushing to do. Still, if your ISP does support V.92, it might be worth considering.

Reset Your Modem

Cable, DSL, Satellite, WirelessModem not working? Power it down, wait at least a minute, and then restart it. Check your documentation for the proper procedure for resetting your device. It may take a while to reestablish a connection with your ISP, and--depending on your type of service--your provider may have to reset the connection device.

What's Coming and Going

all formatsYou can keep an eye on your Internet performance with Vital Signs Software's Net.Medic, a free utility that monitors the flow of data into, out of, and around your PC. Net.Medic helps you find bottlenecks and provides a standard for measuring future online and PC performance.

Restart Your PC

all formatsIt's amazing how many times you can make your problems disappear simply by restarting your PC. Be sure to leave your system powered down for at least 30 seconds before you restart, though. As your PC reboots, keep a close eye on the text displayed on your monitor; error messages may offer clues to whatever it is that ails your PC.

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