Upgrade my DSL modem?

Remember the days of dial-up internet? If you are still working with a 56K modem, you are about to become `ancient' in the eyes of internet users. Most people are upgrading from a 56K modem to the cable internet connections or DSL internet connections. A DSL modem can download twice as fast as the 56K modem and you will instantly notice the difference when you are using the internet.

When you make the decision to upgrade your DSL modem, you should also consider upgrading a few other components of your computer to help it run faster. Your RAM and BIOS may need an upgrade, especially if your computer runs slowly even when it's not connected to the internet. If you have had a modem that was previously installed on your computer, you should upgrade it after about 5 years. This is because modems can wear out over time.

For most people, upgrading a DSL modem will not provide them with too many benefits. If you only use the internet on one or two computers, you really won't notice a lot of difference with a DSL upgrade. If you are planning on buying a few new computers and hooking 5 or 6 into your system, you will have a noticeable difference in your internet speed so it does make sense to upgrade your DSL modem at that time.

The one thing you do need to recognize is that an upgraded DSL modem will not impact your throughput. The throughput is established by your ISP so it doesn't really matter if you pay for the most expensive DSL modem, your data will only transfer as fast as your ISP line is configured for.

Your ISP will actually tell you when it is time to replace your modem. This should be the only reason to replace a modem unless you notice that it is starting to fail. Some people do need to replace their DSL modem because the ISP changes have completely outgrown the old technology to the point that your computer is barely able to browse around the internet.

For most people, a DSL modem will work just fine for several years. As long as you take good care of it, you shouldn't have any problems. Keep the DSL modem in a well-ventilated area that is dust free. You also need to keep the temperature of the room at a consistent level of about 68-70 degrees. Keeping the room too cold or too hot can cause the DSL modem to wear out quickly and you will need to replace it.

A good option you have is to rent your DSL modem through your ISP provider if you are worried about it becoming archaic technology or something happening to it. Qwest and other ISP's will allow you to rent the DSL modem for about $5 a month or less. It is completely covered under warranty so they will send you a new one if there is a problem like a power surge, a flood, or a catastrophic failure. If a DSL modem fails, the problem typically lies with some sort of issue in the original manufacturing of the modem.

Before you allow your ISP to send you a DSL modem or before you head out and purchase one, you need to check the different brand and models to make sure they will be compatible with your system. Usually you will not have a problem when you hook up your DSL modem to your computer, but there can be issues with the telephone company and old wiring in a home. If you have to buy a DSL modem, check on eBay or Amazon for lower prices as many of them are re-manufactured models and they work just as fine.