Connecting to the Internet today is a very easy process, but like anything it is easy only to those who know how to do it. Which kind of modem should I get? What kind of modem will my computer accept? How do I install a modem? These and other questions are very common to a new user. This paper is a brief walk through to answer these and other questions to get you hooked up to the Internet quickly and easily.
The first thing you will need is an ISP (Internet Service Provider). If you are going with a cable modem through your local cable company then this is already taken care of. If you are going to use a dial-up connection then you will need to set up an account with an ISP such as AOL or MSN.
Second is the actual hardware. This is the modem. Again if you are going with a cable modem then the modem and/or router can be installed by the local cable company. You must determine if your computer is equipped with a CAT5 (thick phone cord) or USB port. Either can be used but the USB connection will drain resources from your computer that the CAT5 will not.
In some cases your computer may have one or both of these connections built in. If this is the case then a modem and router will not need to be installed. You can just plug the appropriate cable into your computer and the hardware is set up.
In most cases you will have software that also needs to be installed. This can be application software and/or drivers that will be given to you on a CD from either the cable company or from the hardware you purchased.
You can also choose to go wireless. In this case you will need to purchase a wireless router and card (unless your computer comes with a wireless card). The instructions will explain how to set this up and when and how to install the software for your computer.
The last thing to do is have Windows connect to the Internet. Follow the following steps to achieve this:
1. Click the Windows orb
2. Click Control Panel
3. Select Network and Internet
4. Choose Network and Sharing Center
5. Setup a connection or network
6. Select Connect to the Internet
7. The Connect to the Internet Wizard will appear and you just follow the instructions.
In all cases you will find that connecting to the Internet and acquiring your email is a simple process. Just follow the directions given and you will be on your way in a short amount of time. If you have any problems with the instructions Windows help will usually have enough information to get you through the installation process. If not, then there is technical support through your cable provider, hardware manufacturer, or your computer manufacturer.
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