How to Get a Modem to Work on a Laptop

For dial-up connection to the Internet, a modem for a laptop is an absolute necessity. While many laptops are equipped with a built-in modem, others are not and need the addition of a USB or Serial port modem. Even if the modem is built in, it will still need to be set up to be used. To use a built-in modem or a USB modem, the setup for the hardware to get the modem to work on a laptop is basically the same.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Modem, built-in, USB or Serial port
• Modem drivers
• Phone line
• Internet connection

If You Don't Have an Drivers Install Disk

1. Check the owner's manual or the manufacture's website to determine the model number of the modem if it is built into the laptop. If the modem is an external model, look on the identification plate on the bottom of the modem for the manufacturer and model number.

2. Check the manufactures website for the drivers needed for your modem. If the drivers are not available from the manufacturer, set-up a free account at Driversguide.com and find them there. Drivers Guide has drivers for almost all computer hardware available.

3. Save the drivers' file to your computer and then either copy to a thumb drive, floppy disk or CD to move the driver file to your laptop.

Installing The Drivers

4. Attach the modem to your laptop using the serial cable or USB cable that came with the modem. Connect a telephone line to the modem using the "line in" port on the modem. If the modem is built in, simply plug in a phone line.

5. Locate the modem driver file on your laptop. Unzip the file if necessary to a folder on your laptop where you will be able to access the install files.

6. Click on the "Setup" or "Install" icon in the folder.

7. Follow the on screen instructions to set up the modem for use.

8. Reboot if prompted by your laptop. Your modem will not be set up to connect to the Internet or send faxes if it is equipped to do so.

Tips & Warnings

• Having an extra USB or Serial modem on hand is a good idea. Built in modems fail and having a backup will keep you connected.