Faster downloads? Start with the system

How do I speed up my cable modem or DSL modem to increase throughput?

Not very easily. In fact, you’re generally not going to have much room to mess with your modem or router, unless you’re one very smart hacker and can get inside and fine-tune the default settings.

In fact, stay away from all those Web come-ons that promise you faster downloads with some product or service.

You’re better off improving your operating system and your browser by changing some software settings. Do a search on “maximize browser settings” or “improve cable modem” and see what options you find.

That said, sometimes you have a few options for tweaking your hardware. One general problem that can affect your throughput is using a cable splitter inside the wall and directing cables to your TV and to your computer.

In such cases an inferior splitter will cause signal loss and throughput impairment.

Fixing that problem is simple, if you can find a DC connector and use it instead of the standard splitter often used.

An overview of that issue and how to improve your signal is found at Speedguide.net‘s cable troubleshooting guide. Go to http://www.speedguide.net/ read_articles.php?id=1686.

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