Choosing the extra
hardware for your broadband connection
(see http://www.adslguide.org.uk/guide/summary.asp)
USB
ADSL modem
Many single-computer users currently connect using a USB
modem.
Check whether your PC has a USB connection available.
USB connections generally came into use with Pentium
2 PCs and higher and with Windows 98 or higher.
USB support did actually become possible with later
versions of Windows 95.
Which versions of Windows 95 support USB?
According to Intel's FAQ on USB only Windows 95 OSR2 or
higher supports USB. To find out if what version of
Windows 95 you are using, take the following steps:
1. From the Windows 95 desktop, right-click on MY
COMPUTER
2. From the pop-up menu, left-click on PROPERTIES. This
will display System Properties window.
3. Look for the version number underneath the text that
says "Microsoft Windows 95"
4. The number displayed will tell you what version you
are running:
4.00.950
Windows 95
4.00.950 A
Windows 95 with Service Pack 1 update
4.00.950 B
Windows 95 OSR 2 (OEM Release)
4.00.950 B
Windows OSR 2.1 is OSR 2 with USB
support installed
4.00.950 C
Windows 95 OSR 2.5 (OEM Release)
Only the last two of the above versions provide any
degree of USB support and generally, attempting to
upgrade to USB is not advised
under Windows 95 (see for example, http://www.usbman.com/Win95%20USB%20Guide.htm ).
USB is supported by Windows 98 Second Edition or a more
recent Windows operating system.
PCI
modem card
One alternative to USB connection is to use a PCI ADSL
modem card - see e.g. the ADSLGUIDE.
ADSL
Router
For connecting more than one PC, there's a choice of
networking possiblilities.
Using an ADSL router can avoid the need for the
"server" PC to be switched-on whenever other
PCs need to connect.
Wireless connection of networked PCs is the latest
fashion and this also needs to be considered in case
there's a problem to install network cables between PC
locations.
(BT offer a network solution for two or more PCs which
makes use of the existing telephone cables to connect
between PCs, thus avoiding the need for additional
network cables to be installed between the PC locations).
Remember to re-check that the Internet Provider's
broadband service supports the type of connection that
you want.
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