Your computer speed
The following computer factors will affect
your Internet connection speed:
Processor speed:
Faster computers will allow you to surf faster than slow computers will (not
much you can do about that until you are ready to upgrade your computer).
Memory:
Computers with more memory will surf faster than computers with less memory.
(Memory is relatively inexpensive now, so you might want to consider
purchasing some more.) Avoid opening other programs unnecessarily when
you're surfing the Web. Also, be sure to allocate enough memory to your Web
browser (and give it more than the recommended minimum if you can).
Hard disk:
A fragmented, overstuffed hard disk can slow down your surfing considerably,
so it's a good idea to keep your drive defragmented and optimized. If you
can, try to free up some disk space by deleting unused programs or unneeded
files.
Cache:
Your browser's cache — pronounced "cash" — is a storage area
on your computer's hard disk. While you surf, your browser stores Web pages
in the cache — up to the limit you set. Your browser can display cached
Web pages fast since it doesn't have to fight Web traffic to get to them.
So, if you have the disk room, try upping your browser's cache limit from
its Preferences/Internet Options menu. Internet Explorer's cache settings
are under Advanced; Navigator's are in Cache.
Dial-up traffic jams:
To avoid dial-up traffic jams (and busy signals for you), EarthLink Sprint
Software service offers members more dial-up numbers (POPs) than any other
ISP, more than 1,400 to date with more added all the time.
Web traffic jams:
Web traffic generally increases throughout the day and peaks in early
evening. Do your best to schedule long downloads for off-peak hours
(downloading overnight is a popular option). Major events and software
releases can also cause jams.
Heavy pages:
All Web pages are not created equal: some are fat and slow, and some are
thin and fast. What that means for you is that pages you visit that are
either very long or filled with graphics will take much longer to load in
your browser than short pages of primarily text. If you are designing Web
pages, keep this in mind. Many users will not wait for your graphic-filled
page to load.
