Hardware requirements for network connections

Depending on your configuration, you may need some or all of the following hardware:

• Network adapter with a Network Driver Interface Specification (NDIS) driver for LAN connectivity
• One or more compatible modems and an available COM port
• A 28.8k or 56k modem or ISDN adapter (if you are using an ISDN line)
• DSL modem. If this is an external DSL modem it typically is connected to an Ethernet network adapter.
• Cable Modem. If this is an external cable modem it typically is connected to an Ethernet network adapter.
• X.25 card or PAD (if you are using X.25)
• Analog telephone line
• If your computer is set up for incoming connections, a multiport adapter may improve performance for multiple connections.

To find hardware that is supported by Windows operating systems, visit the Windows Catalog on the Microsoft Web site.

For information about configuring a connection, see To configure a connection.