Because DirecPC is still tethered to phone-line modems for Web page and e-mail requests, I must dial into my regular Internet service provider to get started online.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag

He has one telephone line, which he also uses for dial-up Internet access at 46kbps.

FORBES: Dual Buffett Strategy

Main.net's gear already serves 10, 000 European homes at speeds of 500 kilobits a second, roughly equal to average cable and digital subscriber line (DSL) speeds, but a tenfold increase over standard dial-up modems.

FORBES: Tilting at power lines