Whether you use a modem or broadband, you'll get a faster connection if you tweak your connection's TCP parameters.

Among the most important of these is MaxMTU which, in simple terms, needs to be set to the largest value possible without your data being broken up into smaller chunks en-route. Most techies determine MaxMTU by trial and error, pinging, or using different packet sizes but it's a tedious procedure and definitely not for beginners. TCPOptimizer [1] from SpeedGuide.net is a free utility that will do the job for you automatically. Furthermore, it will use this value to advise you on your other TCP settings and then apply these values at the press of a button.

There are commercial programs that will do much the same thing but TCPOptimizer does it just as well and is totally free. The only minus is the lack of in-program help, however, you'll find a useful FAQ at the SpeedGuide website.

[1] TCPOptimizer
Website: http://www.speedguide.net/
Download link: http://www.speedguide.net/downloads.php
Author: SpeedGuide.net
Current version: 2.0.3
Version date: January 06, 2006
License: Freeware
Download File size: 596KB
Operating Systems Supported: 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003 Server/Vista
Additional Software Required: None
64 Bit Capable: Yes
Portable Version Available: No
Non-English languages supported: None
Other relevant information: None