Modems: frequently asked questions

Here are answers to some common questions about modems.

 What are the different kinds of modems?

There are two common kinds of modems:

• Broadband modems. Broadband modems connect to either a cable or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), and they provide high-speed Internet access.
• Dial-up modems. Dial-up modems connect to the Internet by dialing a telephone number over a telephone line. Dial-up modems usually provide Internet access at a much slower speed than broadband modems.

 How do I tell what kind of modem my computer uses?

If you have broadband Internet access through an Internet service provider (ISP), you most likely have a broadband modem. The modem is usually connected to a cable or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) and is then connected to your computer through an Ethernet cable and network adapter.

Most newer computers no longer come with a dial-up modem. Many older computers have dial-up modems, which connect to the Internet by dialing a telephone number over a telephone line.

 How do I change the modem settings?

1. Click to open Phone and Modem.

   Note

   • You might need to provide information, such as your country or region, and any special phone dialing rules in the Location Information dialog box before you can access the Phone and Modem dialog box.
2. Click the Modems tab.
3. Select the modem you want to change settings for, and then click Properties.
4. Change the settings you want, and then click OK.

 How do I install a modem?

Most broadband modems are external devices. You install one by plugging it into a network port on your computer.

Many dial-up modems are internal and come pre-installed on computers. If you are installing an internal dial-up modem on a desktop computer, you'll need to open your computer case and plug the card into an empty slot. To install an external dial-up modem, plug it into a modem port on your computer. All dial-up modems plug into a telephone line.

Windows will find and automatically install the necessary drivers when it detects that you're installing a new modem. If Windows can't find or install the right driver for your modem, you might need to install the modem manually. For more information, see Install or remove a modem.

 What is TAPI?

The Telephony Application Programming Interface (TAPI) is a standard protocol in Windows that allows your computer to use telephone lines for communication services.

 What is Modem on Hold (MOH) and how do I determine if my modem has it?

Modem on Hold is a feature that allows your dial-up modem to work with call waiting. If you have Modem On Hold running and receive a call on the line that the modem is using, the modem can go into a hold state and pick up where you left off after you complete the call.

Modem on Hold requires that your modem supports it (as well as your Internet service provider (ISP)). Contact your ISP and check your modem settings to determine if you can use Modem on Hold. For more information, see Change modem settings.