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Why is my Internet/broadband connection speed sometimes slower than expected?
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There are several reasons for this:
- PC configuration
Misconfigured PCs can result in poor connection speeds. Insufficient memory, an underpowered processor or an outdated browser are just some possible reasons why users may experience delays. Your service provider can provide more information on how best to configure your PC to optimise your access speeds.
- Peak hour traffic delays
Content-hosting servers may be overloaded during peak hours, when the number of concurrent connections exceeds the web server's capacity. This may result in delays in accessing data. You should try reloading the site at a later time.
- Content provider's system configuration
Different content-hosting web servers can provide varying end-user experiences. For instance, web servers with high-powered CPUs and large amounts of memory will be better able to handle a high demand for content as compared with a less powerful web server.
- Content provider's bandwidth connection
Similarly, end-user access speeds may also be affected by the content providers' bandwidth connection to the Internet. If this bandwidth connection is insufficient, the end-user may experience slow access speeds, even if the local Internet service provider has allocated sufficient bandwidth for the connection.
- External routing delays/congestion
Slow connection speeds are sometimes also due to overseas routing delays/congestion. Unfortunately, such delays are usually beyond the control of local service providers.
In the case of fixed broadband services that are provided to residential end-users, IDA is aware that some service providers may manage their networks to optimise the quality of their services to subscribers in general. Such network management practices may affect different groups of Internet users differently. IDA has thus worked with the providers of residential fixed broadband internet access services to provide consumers with more information about their network management policies. More information is available here.
If you are experiencing difficulties with your Internet connection, you may refer the matter to your service provider for their necessary action. You can also pick up some tips and tricks to improve your broadband experience here.
IDA has also imposed a set of minimum Quality of Service (QoS) standards for Internet and broadband access services. The QoS standards only apply to portions of the Internet access and broadband network that are under the control of your service provider. It is important to note that external factors which are beyond the control of the local service provider can sometimes affect your connection speeds (e.g. overseas routing delays, peak hour delays).
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What is modem jacking and has anyone in Singapore been affected by it?
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Some consumers in Singapore have been victims of modem jacking, in which users are charged premium international calling rates without them knowing, when they use their dial-up modems to surf the Internet.
Modem jacking is triggered off when a modem dialler software on the computer disconnects modems from their local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and reconnects to the Internet via an international toll number, therefore incurring IDD charges. Similar to computer virus programmes, modem diallers are small pieces of software that are automatically downloaded onto the computer when an Internet user visits certain websites. When activated, the software disables the connection to the user's own ISP and then reconnects the modem to another ISP via an international toll number, often without the user's knowledge.
Often, the source of modem diallers are websites offering "free" or "premium" content relating to adult, gaming or gambling material. This process of forcing the modem to dial another number is also known as Internet dumping, Trojan dialling or Internet dialling.
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2.
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Can modem jacking occur with broadband access?
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No, the broadband modem is designed to allow the computer to function over the private network of the cable or telephone company, and is controlled by the equipment on that private network. In the case of Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology, the DSL modem sends signals over a frequency range on telephone wires that is not normally used in a regular telephone call. Since the modem dialler accesses the frequency range that is used to make regular international telephone calls, it will not work on a broadband modem.
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3.
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How do I prevent modem jacking?
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The following are some preventive measures that can be taken:
No. | Options | Descriptions | 1 | Disable outgoing international calls | The subscriber can choose to disable outgoing international calls from the fixed-line number by activating a value-add service offered by their ISPs. | 2 | Activate PIN for international out-going call | Service providers, like SingTel, offer a phone lock service, where a PIN code is needed in order to make outgoing international calls. This prevents international calls from being automatically connected by the modem dialler software. | 3 | Do not click on suspicious .exe or .com files | As some modem dialler software are activated via .exe or .com files, do not download or activate such files when surfing the Internet or accessing e-mails. | 4 | Be mindful of the risk when visiting websites prone to containing such malicious programs | Statistics from overseas governmental sources have shown that adult, gaming and gambling websites have a higher risk of containing such malicious programs. | 5 | Configure Internet browser setting | Switch the Internet setting in your Internet browser to the highest security setting. The drawback is that certain computer graphics might not be available. | 6 | Install appropriate firewall and anti-virus software programs | Installing appropriate firewall and anti-virus programs onto your computer will help prevent a substantial number of malicious dial-up programs from being downloaded without your knowledge. | 7 | Install other security related software | Software designed to remove malicious programs will reduce the occurrence of modem jacking. | 8 | Use broadband Internet connection | The modem dialler software is designed for activation via a dial-up subscription, and will not affect broadband subscribers. |
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4.
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What should I do if I am a victim of modem jacking?
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You should seek immediate advice from your ISP.
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5.
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Can IDA assist victims of modem jacking by asking the IDD service providers to waive the IDD charges?
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It is not appropriate for IDA to require IDD service providers to waive the charges incurred in such cases, especially when there is an accurate record showing that the international calls were made from a subscriber's fixed line. IDA will leave the service provider to make the decision, based on customer goodwill or commercial considerations.
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6.
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Can IDA require telecommunication service providers to block outgoing calls to countries commonly known to be destinations for modem jacking?
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No, it will not be impractical for IDA to do so because the perpetrators can easily relocate to another country, and it will prevent legitimate calls from being made to these countries. It is simpler and more effective for the individual consumers to block outgoing international calls from their own telephone lines.
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What should I do if I come across offensive websites or undesirable content on the Internet?
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If you come across a website with offensive material, you can bring it to the attention of the Media Development Authority (MDA), the regulatory authority for Internet content.
Some Internet service providers have also launched Family Access Network (FAN) services that can filter out undesirable content on the Internet. You may wish to contact your service provider for more information on these services.
Parents may also wish to visit the Child Safety Portal for more information on how to protect their children from offensive material on the Internet.
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Why should I secure my wireless network?
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Unauthorised users who use your wireless network to surf the Internet can access any file on your computer that you have shared with others. They may use your wireless network access for undesirable activities like surfing for pornography. You may also experience a significant slowdown in your Internet access speed if other users are using your wireless network. Furthermore, depending on the terms of your contract with your Internet service provider, allowing other users to use your wireless network access may be considered a breach of contract.
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2.
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How do I secure my wireless network?
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You can secure your wireless network in four simple steps:
Step 1. Change your default Administrator password;
Step 2. Turn on WiFi Protected Access (WPA) or Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) Encryption;
Step 3. Disable the broadcast of your Service Set Identifier (SSID) which broadcasts the presence of your network to everyone within range, and
Step 4. Change your default SSID name.
The procedures for securing the wireless network are usually found in the manual that comes with your wireless network devices, such as the wireless router. It is also common for device manufacturers to provide you with simple instructions to secure your wireless network during the set-up process.
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How do I know which wireless network I am using?
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Click on the icon "Wireless Network Connection" or any other similarly named icon in the "Network Connections" menu to check the identity of the wireless network that you are currently using.
If you are connected to a wireless network which you have not been authorised to use, disconnect immediately and reconnect to a wireless network which you have permission for.
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4.
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Since the wireless access network is unsecured, why can't I use it for free Internet access?
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If the wireless access network belongs to another person and you have not obtained permission or approval from that other person to use his/her network, your access will be considered unauthorised. Besides possible legal infringement issues, you risk having your surfing activities monitored and your information stolen. Through their wireless network devices, the person may be able to track down details of your surfing activities, such as your email passwords.
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5.
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Is there any free wireless network access that I can use?
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Many places such as food and beverage outlets and public libraries provide free wireless network access. These networks often require you to acknowledge their terms of use. Activate your Internet browser at these locations, read their terms of use carefully before deciding whether to agree to them. Alternatively, approach the staff for instructions to use the free wireless access network.
The Wireless@SG initiative by IDA also provides free wireless Internet access in areas of high human traffic. Click on this link for details.
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6.
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How do I protect myself and my wireless devices when I am accessing the Internet through a wireless network?
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Check that you are connecting to the correct wireless network and practise safe surfing habits to protect yourself and your wireless devices.
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