Ok, due to lack of choice I am being forced to use AOHELL. I have a 56k modem and i keep getting connected with 36k. Is there any way to help this by doing something to xp? Or am i stuck with this crappy, crappy internet(for a month)? Is there any good programs that are out there that do a GOOD job at boosting internet connection? Please help. This is killing me! If this keeps up i'll have to do something besides play on the internet. :(

One thing to check is to see if modem port speed is set to maximum. Find and open Modem Options in Control Panel, Modems tab, Properties button, Modem tab, increase Maximum Port Speed to max.

You might also try a search on "modem string tweaks" for your modem and for aol. However, you're connecting a 36k now so any increase will be negligible, but perhaps a slight help. LL

An idea here: Downlaod and try the free trial of Accelerate 2000 from www.webroot.com You can make the registry changes yourself that it will do, but it's easier to let ACC 2000 do it, especially for trial use. Also, sad to say, but DISABLE all your graphics and active X and JAVA and such. Will make a major difference in speed. Also, the ACC 2000 program did help me with my 56 K way back when, I used to get 48 K consistently. Also, www.webattack.com, in their ???section has lots of connection toys to try for free. They are all tweaks of some sort.

Eric... It might not be AOL (although they certainly are a crappy provider) and your phone lines. If that's the case, there isn't much you can do about it. You might find after you get another ISP that the same thing is happening. -=Bryan=-

Eric, Try updating your modem driver first, if that doesn't help go order DSL for a month and ask them to come to your house and fix your phone line (tell them the connection is very slow and they should come and fix it for FREE).

Nice tip Peter! Just out of curiosity Eric...how come you have no choice besides AOL? -=Bryan=-