I currently run Windows XP and am thinking of changing to a more up to date version; problem is ADSL modem supplied from BT some years ago when I was on Win 98 is on a cd that does not specify it is compatible with more modern Windows versions; if I upgrade is it possible for the CD to work, /be recognised by the/any more up to date new Windows version and run on it and load the modem the CD

I have tried asking BT somewhile ago but told to ask the ADSL modem people!!!

You're not still running one of those old USB powered modems are you?

Highly unlikely. It's doubtful that anyone would have made drivers for a USB modem (if that's what you have, probably like a Voyager 100 or something). They fell out of popularity at least 10 years ago and no one makes them anymore.

You'd be better off ditching the USB modem and buying either an ethernet ADSL modem (one computer) or an ADSL router (which would let you use multiple computers/tablets/phones if you have them)

Also, the CD that is supplied with a new router/modem is not required anyway.

Can you please clarify?

How does one install the ADSL modem ? Will the Windows version 'find it'? and if so how please?

can you read off what model your existing router is? also to answer above, the new modems/ router are independent devices that do not require a computer to operate, and the CD is simply going to show you how to plug it in. To plug into your computer you just use the supplied Ethernet cable, or wifi to various devices laptops, PCs, phones ,tablets etc.

If the modem/router is connected via an ethernet cable or WiFi to the computer there is no need for any CD to set it up. The protocols used by ethernet/WiFi are internationally agreed standards that all kit using those protocols should adhere to. So there is no need of specialised software to connect two devices using ethernet/WiFi.

If however the modem is connected via USB then that is not so rigidly standardised so individual manufacturers can have their own take on how the computer and modem communicate with each other. Therefore you will need to load drivers for the modem onto the computer.

So with ethernet or WiFi as long as the computer has installed drivers for the ethernet and/or WiFi card used (which should be done as part of the standard Windows installation) then there is nothing else required to connect to the ADSL modem/router.

I remember when 512Kbps felt fast.

Now there's no chance of the corporates stuffing their ads through pipes that size.

But we're still not at the point where file transfer is as fast as a local connection. Unless you are used to 10Mbps Ethernet I'd say that was the norm 20 years ago.

So, using that rule of thumb 1Gbps internet to the desktop should take about 10 more years.