There are many other factors that could influence the quality of your connection. The type and setup of your modem plays an important role in your connection. Some older modems can only achieve a maximum speed of 36,000bps. Sometimes an extra init string for a modem can change the speed at which the modem connects.

It is vital that the correct and latest Modem Driver is installed, but this is not simple - as there are thousands of makes, models and manufacturers modems in use, and some of them are unbranded, making it even more difficult to obtain these drivers. Ideally install the correct drivers from CD or Stiffy that were supplied by the manufacturer. Otherwise look at www.56k.com or www.modemhelp.org for information and drivers.

The actual phone line itself may be good quality, but the extension from the wall to your modem may be faulty - buy a new one and replace them. Having other equipment attached to the line can also influence the connection. Try removing all fax equipment, other telephones, answering machines, line splitters, even lightning surge protectors from the line to see if there is any difference.

Having any other electronic equipment near line can sometimes affect it. Keep your modem and cables away from "electrical noise sources" such as motors, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, electric fences, overhead electricity pylons, electric fences, cell phones and fluorescent lights.

Don't run a phone line extension cord over 5 metres. Wet or frozen telephone lines can also cause problems with connections.

Contact the Call Centre for assistance, but note that there is a limit to what we can do remotely. If within an hour or so the problem cannot be resolved telephonically, you will need to enlist the services of a qualified computer technician at your own expense.

We can remotely connect to your computer to check Windows settings (with your permission)