Let's face it, the good old days of Internet connectivity software are gone forever. With the move from dial-up to broadband, companies like AOL and Juno that offer such software have been forced to come up creative ways to get people to continue using their software. For example, AOL now offers news, videos, and other content to lure people into continued use of their Internet client.

While the death of the dial-up Internet connectivity software is a foregone conclusion, there is other connectivity software available that can increase your workplace productivity:

1. Get more work done in less time by using Internet connection software to speed up your connection.
2. Use Internet connection software to administer all connections in your office simultaneously.
3. Increase job flexibility by using remote Internet connection software to access your work PC from anywhere you choose.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Download Internet connection software to optimize your connection

An Internet accelerator is a group of Internet connection software that optimizes your network settings to speed up your existing Internet connection. This works whether you are connection via dial-up, cable modem, DSL, or wireless.

I recommend: Purchase and download the latest version of the SpeedConnect Internet Accelerator from CBS Software. SpeedConnect will fine-tune your TCP/IP and registry parameters so that you can get the most out of your existing network connection without having to purchase an expensive upgrade in service. Ashampoo offers their Internet Accelerator 2 free of charge.

Download the best Internet connection software for centralized administration of your office network

You can use Internet connection software to feed all of your office network users to the Internet through a single connection. This allows you greater control over your internal network, including the ability to filter content, speed up Internet access, and monitor usage.

I recommend: You can download the Gatewall Internet management tool at VistaFiles.org. Rhino Software offers Allegro Surf on a try before you buy basis.

Use remote Internet connection software to increase your work flexibility and productivity

There is Internet connection software that allows you to remotely access your work PC from your home computer, or even your cell phone. The GoToMyPC service requires a small download to your computer or phone, while the WebEx PCNow can be used entirely through your web browser. You can save time, save gas money, and reduce stress by giving yourself the ability to work from wherever you choose.

I recommend: Citrix Online provides the GoToMyPC service, which allows you to remotely access your work PC from home. Cisco Systems has a similar service called WebEx PCNow. Both companies offer a free thirty day trial, after which you are charged a monthly fee for the service.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you are one of those people that is still using (and paying for) AOL's connectivity software out of sheer force of habit, you will be interested to know that they are no longer charging for their services. If you don't use AOL's Internet security suite, and have no desire for backup dial-up service through AOL, you are entitled to continue to use your AOL email and the AOL software client free of charge. There are many AOL users out there still paying a monthly for services that are now supposed to be free. If you are one of those people, contact AOL customer service to get the matter resolved.