How to Turn Dial-Up Internet Connections Into a Better Experience

Once upon a time, dial-up connections were the only way to get on the ‘net’. Times have changed and most people have access to high-speed connections such as DSL and Cable Modem. For those of us who have no option but dial-up, this can be especially frustrating. Even more so, if we’ve ever had the chance to experience a high-speed connection. Since we’ve really no other choice, the best thing a dial-up user can do is make the best of the situation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Patience
• A sense of humor
• Other things to do

1. Resign yourself to the fact that a dial-up connection is better than no connection at all.
2. Understand that those huge video downloads are out of your reach, unless you want to leave the computer downloading all night or longer. Pick and choose your big downloads wisely.
3. Grab a soda, water or a cup of coffee while waiting for a graphic intensive page to load. This is also a good time for a bathroom break.
4. Do other things on your computer, such as balance your checking account, while waiting for a download or even all of your email to come in.
5. Say positive, daily affirmations to yourself while waiting for a page to load. It will make you feel better than mumbling to yourself about things you cannot change.
6. Go to the library if there is a video you absolutely have to see. Most libraries have high-speed and you can schedule time on their computers.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for people to snicker when you say you still have dial-up.
• Know that as the Internet becomes even more graphic/media intensive, there will be fewer places for you to access.
• Satellite Internet is an option for some people. The costs are high, so make sure you can justify the added expense.
• Ask yourself if you would rather live where high-speed is available or are you otherwise perfectly happy where you are.