V.90

SNET Internet's statewide network is fully compliant with the latest V.90 modem standard.

In early 2001, we will be upgrading our dial-up network hardware and software statewide to improve performance. A consequence of the upgrade is that our network will no longer be backward-compatible with the old "x2" standard. Subscribers who have older x2 standard modems that have not been upgraded to v.90 may no longer be able to connect at speeds above 33.3k.

Subscribers using so-called "x2" or "flex" modems should check with either their modem manufacturer or the distributor of their computer for information on whether their modems can be upgraded to V.90.

SNET Internet was previously x2 compliant. The V.90 standard is backwards-compatible with x2, and those subscribers using x2 modems may notice little or no difference in connect speeds if they upgrade to V.90 if they are already getting good connect speeds. Users with x2 who have gotten inconsistent connect speeds will probably see better results with V.90.

Any standard modem can be used to connect to our network. For customers seeking the best possible connection, however, we recommend current V.90 modems. Customers should be aware that so-called 56k modems can only reach a maximum speed of 53k under optimum conditions, and that results can vary considerably depending on your location and phone lines. SNET Internet does not guarantee any particular connection speed. We have found that most Internet users using V.90-compatible modems get connections between 40k and 50k. Some users may not see any improvement over their 28.8k or 33.6k modem speeds.

A good reference site for the average user is www.v90.com. Owners of older U.S. Robotics/3Com modems are advised to check for upgrades here.