Hi, I'm stuck with dialup, although V.92 is available. I need a new, hopefully faster modem that works with Linux. What do YOU recommend for speed? I've read good things about the US Robotics USR5610B, but it's pretty expensive for a modem. Any idea if it's worth it, or should I just buy a vanilla $5.00 modem? Thanks!

Those $5.00 modems probobly wont work with Linux. For faster/more reliable connections (not to mention working perfectly with Linux) get an external Serial Modem. They are HARDWARE, where as those winmodems are SOFTWARE. Its just plain better.

Do the external USB modems work with linux also?

The USR 5610b performance Pro PCI Modem is just as fast as the external USR Sportster is. I prefer the internel modem. No extras laying around etc. My brother inlaw just bought a creative externel modem it was controller based (Hardware) It seemed to work as good as the USR and it was only 29$ at best buy.USR has the reputation and I have always had good luck with thier products. If it says it is controllered based it will work in Linux. The controlerless are winmodems they suck even in windoze. If you can afford the extra $$ go with the 5610b it is well worth it. I have them in all my boxes except one and it has the externel Sportster. Take Care Ron

The V.92 doesn't run any faster. (even though it claims to.) It still runs about 50 KBS (about the same as 56k.) The only thing that it does is allow you to get calls while on the internet without disconnecting. This in my opinion is not worth it. (Then again I have a cable modem and it was about the same price as the old Dial-Up modem.) Bassically your old modem would still be about the same, I wouldn't suggest upgrading unless you go to a broadband connection. But the V.92 connection isn't worth it. And also you have to make sure that your provider supports it. As to whether it would work on Linux I am not really sure. But all in all, the hefty price tag for almost no upgrade isn't worth it.