Why Is My 56K Modem Working at 28K?

Dial-up connection speed is influenced by different factors.

Everyone wants their dial-up modems to access the Internet as fast as possible. Modems have a maximum speed of 56 kbps (kilobits per second) because that is the fastest the telephone lines can successfully transmit data. Having a 56K modem does not mean always getting that speed. Most of the time, a dial-up connections will fluctuate from session to session depending on different factors. Simply purchasing a 56K modem does not guarantee faster speeds in day-to-day Internet activities.

56K Works Both Ways

56K is required on both ends of the connection to accomplish higher speeds. If you purchase a 56K but you are connecting to a computer that is running with a 28K modem, the fastest possible speed for the connection is 28K. The modems will compare abilities and run at the fastest speed that both can reliably transfer data.

Drivers

Make sure the drivers for your modem are up-to-date. Check the manufacturer's website for driver updates. Sometimes there are conflicts between a modem and the system that may result in it defaulting to a different rate. Keep drivers updated for your system's general well-being.

Service Provider

Some service providers have special lines for 56K connections. This prevents users with lower speed modems from wasting the line. Make sure you are using the correct number that is capable of a higher speed connection. If you just upgraded from a slower modem, it may still default to a number that only goes up to the speed of the previous modem.

Telephone Line

The telephone line itself can cause the modem to not be as fast as it is capable of. The modem will judge the analog connection and determine the speed it can reliably send and receive data. A noisy line can cause the modem to have to slow down. Make sure quality cables are used to connect the modem to the wall. Also check the cables under the house that connect the extensions. One faulty cable can bring down the performance of the whole network. If the problem comes from outside the house, contact the phone company.

Protocols

Protocols are like a language that a modem speaks. Internet service providers use many types of protocols. Check to make sure you are accessing the provider with the correct protocol. The wrong protocol might not render the connection useless, but make it perform slower than it is capable of. Some protocols that are common are V.90, X2, and K56Flex.

References

• PulseWan: 56K Modems (A Reality Check)