Test your download speeds by downloading a file from the POP closest to you.

To calculate your expected download speed, divide your connection rate by 8. If your download rate is 256, your max download speed should be about 32kbps. If your download rate is 640, your max download speed should be about 80kbps.

For an accurate picture of your download speed, consider using a program like NetStat Live. (Freeware)

There are several sites that have info on tweaking Windows Networking so it works best with DSL. Here are a couple:

• Navas Cable Modem/DSL Tuning Guide
• ZDNet: Tune Windows for Broadband
• RegEdit.com: Internet and Network Performance Settings
• Speed Guide.net: Cable Modems & xDSL Resources