How to Install and Troubleshoot a Modem in Windows XP

A modem is a device used to connect your computer to the Internet. Today, most computers that use broadband are connected through LAN or other network connections, but some people still use standard 56K modems for faxing and other tasks. Most modern computers come with Ethernet and wireless networking installed. For those who still want to use a modem, it's possible to install one with relative ease, and troubleshoot problems with help from Microsoft.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows XP
• Modem

Install a Modem in Windows XP

1. Unplug your computer, and remove any wires or other peripherals from the ports at the rear of the tower.

2. Open your tower to reveal the motherboard and the available component slots.

3. Locate the appropriate slot in the motherboard for your modem. It is either a PCI or ISA slot. It should be easy to discern which is appropriate for your modem based on the design of the connectors.

4. Press the modem firmly into place on the motherboard, making sure the connectors are completely in contact with all of the pins.

5. Close the tower and plug everything in once more.

6. Turn on your PC.

7. Wait while Windows XP tries to detect any new hardware that has been installed. Windows' database of hardware is extensive, and more 56k modems are listed in the cache file. A bubble may appear, indicating that new hardware has been found.

8. Click on the bubble to bring you to the "Add New Hardware" menu. From there, Windows XP will walk you through the steps needed to both install and troubleshoot your new modem.

9. Be sure to place any software provided by the modem's manufacturers into the appropriate drive. Drivers for providing or improving modem functionality are often provided on software CDs.

Tips & Warnings

• Upgrade your modem to a newer version if you're concerned it may not work in Windows XP. Current modems include the drivers necessary to run in Windows XP, which makes them much easier to troubleshoot.
• Broadband is widely available, and simpler to use. It's also much faster than dial-up.
• Perform a complete, clean (not an upgrade or overwrite) installation of Windows XP to help prevent serious conflicts or errors when you try to install your modem.
• Internal modems can be more problematic to install, and should only be done by technically proficient individuals. Failure to properly install a modem can lead to critical errors.

Resources

• ModemSite.com for Windows XP modem installation details