Anybody know any programs/tricks I can use to speed up my internet connection on a 56k modem? Currently through Earthlink I am(according to my comp) at 44Kps. Also is there a site that might tell me my "real" connection speed? I want to lower my pings on games also? Any advice would be great. thanks.

go to www.speedguide.net or www.3dtweak.net and look through their articles, they've got some great info to help you out.

As for checking you speed try this site. http://msn.zdnet.com/partners/msn/bandwidth/speedtest.htm

There are ways to ping several servers and you can pick the fastest one for playing games.You may want to look for these utilities at: http://www.zdnet.com/downloads/
In the search box type in " PING "

thanks i'll check these out.

if you want to check your speed go to www.2wire.net and click on the bandwith meter. as for the MSN one make sure you clear your cache before running that test or it will be inaccurate.

To lower your pings in games such as half life, quake 3, and um..maybe even Soldier of Fortune - there is a command called RATE. In hl type rate, in q3 type /rate in the console and it will give you a number. Adjust this number until you have the lowest ping. Using a cable modem this number should be 9999 in my opinion, but with a 56k it should probably be any where from 2000-4000

Along with a internet accellerator, most games can be tweaked to give you a better ping. Here is a good guide for both your connection, and some game tips. http://maniac.reload-software.com/entered_pings.htm