Processor speed:
Faster computers will
allow you to surf faster than slow computers will (not much you can do
about that until you are ready to upgrade your computer).
Memory:
Computers with more memory
will surf faster than computers with less memory. (Memory is relatively
inexpensive now, so you might want to consider purchasing some more.)
Avoid opening other programs unnecessarily when you're surfing the Web.
Also, be sure to allocate enough memory to your Web browser (and give it
more than the recommended minimum if you can).
Hard disk:
A fragmented, overstuffed
hard disk can slow down your surfing considerably, so it's a good idea
to keep your drive defragmented and optimized. If you can, try to free
up some disk space by deleting unused programs or unneeded files.
Cache:
Your browser's cache —
pronounced "cash" — is a storage area on your computer's
hard disk. While you surf, your browser stores Web pages in the cache
— up to the limit you set. Your browser can display cached Web pages
fast since it doesn't have to fight Web traffic to get to them. So, if
you have the disk room, try upping your browser's cache limit from its
Preferences/Internet Options menu. Internet Explorer's cache settings
are under Advanced; Navigator's are in Cache.
Dial-up traffic jams:
To avoid dial-up traffic
jams (and busy signals for you), EarthLink Sprint Software service
offers members more dial-up numbers (POPs) than any other ISP, more than
1,400 to date with more added all the time.
Web traffic jams:
Web traffic generally
increases throughout the day and peaks in early evening. Do your best to
schedule long downloads for off-peak hours (downloading overnight is a
popular option). Major events and software releases can also cause jams.
Heavy pages:
All Web pages are not
created equal: some are fat and slow, and some are thin and fast. What
that means for you is that pages you visit that are either very long or
filled with graphics will take much longer to load in your browser than
short pages of primarily text. If you are designing Web pages, keep this
in mind. Many users will not wait for your graphic-filled page to load. |