I am one of those unlucky people that still use dial up internet connection. I had some problems with my PCI Rockwell modem (thunder storm problems) and I need to buy new one. I do not know much about modems and for many people they are long gone history so I would appreciate a lot if you give me some recommendations about modems.
First, try to avoid internal PCI Soft (or Win) modems. They are not very reliable and they are using computer resources that can be put in the better use somewhere else. Buy external hardware modem (they are more expensive but it is worth it). I would look for some USRobotics Courier v.Everything v92 models as they are very reliable and have some advanced settings.