• The number of users visiting a site. Popular Web sites can be overloaded if the number of visitors to the site increases unexpectedly. If one particular Web site seems to respond slowly, try visiting it later.
  
  
• Computer components. Newer, faster computers usually are able to download content a little faster than older computers.
  
  
• Transmission "overhead." Transmission overhead is a portion of the data that is sent and received when you browse Web sites or send and receive email. This data is responsible for ensuring that you see the correct Web site, or send email to the correct recipients.
  
  
• Hard drive space. To free up space on your hard drive, delete temporary Internet files, clear your browser cache, empty your Recycle Bin, and defragment your hard drive every few months. Freeing up space on your hard drive may improve system performance.

To help solve slow connection problems you can do the following:

• Turn the modem off and then back on again.
  • Use the power switch on the back of the modem to turn off the power, wait 15 seconds, and then turn the modem back on.
  • After waiting 45 seconds to allow the modem to synchronize to the server, try connecting to the Internet.
    
    Note: If your modem doesn't have an on/off switch, unplug the modem in place of turning the modem off.
    
    
• If your modem is plugged into a surge protector, try plugging it directly into the power outlet in the wall.