How to Increase Computer Dial Up Speed for Free

Old telephone

Dial-up Internet has limited speed, so its use is rapidly declining. But due to the costs associated with high-speed Internet, there are still many who are sticking with it. While dial-up is slow by comparison, there are several things you can do for free to ensure you are getting the fastest connection possible.

Things You'll Need

• modem
• antivirus
• spyware remover

Instructions

1. Get the fastest modem you can. If your modem is more than a few years old you may benefit from a new modem that uses better technology. If you have a modem slower than 56k, then a newer modem will help you speed up. Many people are on high-speed connections and don't need a dial-up modem, so ask your friends if they have one you can use.

2. Make sure you have enough space on your hard drive. Surfing the Web uses up space. When your hard-drive space is limited, your Internet connection will slow down. Delete your cookies and temporary files often to make sure that you don't have too many of these files slowing down your dial-up connection.

3. Clean up malware. Get a good antivirus program and spyware remover program and use them often. Getting rid of viruses and malware will definitely help speed up your computer. However, running those programs will also slow down your computer some. It may be better to only run the programs occasionally instead of continually. Regardless, you should try to find antivirus and spyware programs that are on the smaller side. The software is always changing, but reading review sites will help you know which programs work best and have the smallest footprint. Some of the best programs are either free or have a free version.

4. Install speed-boosting software. There are many scams out there, so be careful. However, some speed-boosting programs out there do work. They usually come at a cost, there are some free options. These programs use compression and page archiving to help you achieve faster downloads.

5. Check your phone lines. If you are experiencing extremely slow connections ask the phone company to check the lines coming to your house. The phone company will also check the lines inside your house for no additional charge if you have a maintenance contract with them.

References

• Henry Amon; Information Systems Specialist; Salisbury, Maryland

Resources

• Free speed booster program
• Anti-spyware program with a free version
• Free anti-virus program