Speed up internet surfing

Are there any free or low cost programs that would be worthwhile to install on my computer to speed up my internet surfing, or am I stuck with the speed I get from my 56K modem? Out here in the country, there is no cable or DSL available. Satellites have their complications also and cost more than the value I'd get.

 

I've never found anything that helps as much as using the tips here.

 

Barry--Perhaps already included in noahdfear 's excellent reference, but a tweak to possibly speed downloads.
http://www.the-scream.co.uk/html/resources/ie_reg_tweak.html

 

Barry,
I'm "stuck" with dialup for a while longer over hear in Aus till the ADSL prices come down another 25-30% or so. The best speed I get for Modem dialup is when I do the following.

Install the latest Modem drivers (don't rely on the XP default)
Don't use both Software and hardware compression. Turn off Modem (hardware) compression and only use software compression.

I've seen too many XP systems where both of these types of compression are switched on. It slows down modem throughput.

 

Paul,
I need to find some time to go through the other tweaks, but do have the newest drivers. How do I check whether I have hardware and software compression?
Barry

 

You'll find software compression on dialup properties>networking tab>type of server(PPP)>settings. Modem compression is on general tab>connect using>configure.

 

Dave,
Thanks for the navigation info. I found the modem compression enabled, so I disabled it. I'll see if it makes a difference.
Barry

 

You're welcome. Hope all the tweaking helps.