Internet Connection

You will need some device to connect to the internet and if you're reading this you should already have that connection. Most commonly used are modems, but broadband (faster) alternatives such as ADSL and Cable modems are now becoming more widely available.

If you have a modem make sure it's a 56k modem, or if your on the look out for a good modem we recommend the Diamond supra express 56e Pro (external version).

The faster your internet connection the lower your "ping" time will be. Now ping is the speed at which your machine sends information to the game server and back again. All you need to know is as long as the "ping" time displayed in the game (usually on the scoreboard) is below 250 you should be fine. If it's higher you may want to reboot your machine, reconnect to the internet and close everything you don't need on your machine. Like do you really need ICQ, or internet explorer loaded in the background when you play? Simple answer is no, so try to close all programs before playing any game online for a smoother connection to the game server.

Example scoreboard from the game Counter Strike showing  Frags (number of kills) totals, and the "ping" time

Check List: 

• A modem or other device to connect to the internet.

• A ISP (internet service provider).

• Closed all unnecessary programs on your machine before you play.