Be nice to me -- I'm finally entering the new millenium (computer-wise) and need some technical assistance/advice, but in layman's terms please! I'm not necessarily technologically challenged; I'd say I have a working knowledge.

My dilemma -- I was given a computer running Win2000, with a 3GB hard drive and 128MB RAM, but it's set up for broadband (I'm currently running Win95 with a dial-up AOL connection!) I tried taking the modem out of my current set up, but the slots in the new tower are long black ones vs. the shorter white slots in my existing CPU (I posed this problem in another forum and they accused me of being a troll!) (whatever that is!)

Apparently, because of those black slots, the odds of my finding a compatible ISA modem are slim, so I guess my next step is to go broadband? Which, again, I grasp the concept that it's faster, but am confused by the details. So, stupid question time!

1) Is there some type of converter-type apparatus that would turn my land-line into broadband? (yeah, I didn't think so!)

2) Broadband, cable modem, DSL, high-speed internet -- all the same thing?

3) I'm just looking to surf the net faster and more efficiently (I can't even support ShockWave right now!) but, do I give up my AOL account and then my broadband provider is also my ISP? I don't get that part.

4) Can I just have broadband? I don't have to change my phone service or subscribe to cable or anything?

5) Anybody know of a good web site that could help clarify things for me?

By the way, for those of you who are wondering how I could possibly have a tower that has black modem slots, but is set up for broadband ('cuz that was definitely a topic of conversation in the other forum!) It was one of 25 stations in a call-center network that I think was comprised of "pieces of parts". The net tech I got it from was the one who said I needed an ISA modem (vs PCI?).

So, thanks for your assistance -- I was given this computer at Christmas and have been chomping at the bit to get it up and online!

Hello USMCPJG,

Welcome to PCHF!

Most ISP's can provide both Dialup and Broadband connections. Whatever ISP you decide to go with (please not AOL!!!), would normally provide you with a broadband router. The router usually requires a USB socket on your PC. The broadband router will connect to your telephone line. BT will upgrade your line so that you can support broadband. You can then use broadband at the same time your on the phone! Broadband, DSL are considered the same thing. High-speed internet can cover a wide range of internet options including Broadband. Cable modem generally refers to a dialup modem.

This link may be of interest to you: Broadband information

And of course any questions are welcome!

Thanks for the info and for not making fun of me! So, I'm right in giving up the idea of trying to find a modem for the black slots, and going broadband?

The USB socket you referred to is that port in back that has what looks like a phone jack, only bigger?

Why not AOL? (since I'm already with them . . . ) And is it better to get broadband from an ISP or a phone company?

Thanks again!

No a usb socket looks like this -

lol, naa, that's what were here for USM.

You won't need to use you black ISA slot in your PC if you go broadband. And (as Upgrader reminded me earlier), depending on what broadband package you go with, you will have a basic broadband modem which will connect to the usb port above. The modem itself is external. There is normally a package you can upgrade to that will provide a wireless router. These routers generally have a Ethernet connection instead of USB, and will use this socket instead:



Having broadband from your phone company, such as BT is normally considered more reliable. Some other ISP you may find cheaper, but bear in mind that ISP's generally use BT, but route your internet connection through them, which means there is more chance of having downtime on your broadband connection.

AOL are the only ISP I would never recomend. It maybe great whilst everything is working, until you do actually encounter a problem, or when you try to upgrade, cancel or remove the software off your PC is when the nightmare begins! You should find the same response from all the staff here, and probably from any tech you'll find around the world.

I agree with madmonkey although i never had any big problems it was customer service! (im ex-aol) im now surfing along happily on UKFSN.

Thanks guys! I'm assuming whoever I go with will provide me all the necessary accouterments and I won't have to display my ignorance! Now I guess it's time to go broadband-provider hunting!

Been nice talking to y'all -- hopefully I won't be needing your wisdom any further, but it's nice to know you're there if I need you!

Toodles!