just wondering
2006-11-16 02:42:33 · 4 answers · asked by macgyver 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Computer Networking
Yes. A computer that has an operating system as old as DOS and Windows 3.1 can still connect to the internet if you have the right software to use on it.
For example, if you are using a dial-up service such as AOL or other package, they used to have floppy disks that contained their software. All you needed was to set up your modem to dial their service. If you have a DSL or cable internet service, that PC just needs a network card, and then you should be able to configure the software to work on it.
The question is whether you would want to do this. Older PCs tend to be more difficult to maintain and install properly to get it working, and the cost of base model eMachines are so low nowadays that it may be less of a headache to buy yourself a newer system to use.
My Internet provider gave me a booklet when I signed up and it showed how to install their software on Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows XP. You should be able to get a PC with any of those operating systems installed that will let you connect to the Internet.
2006-11-16 02:56:30 · answer #1 · answered by SteveN 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have connected DOS 5.0, Windows 3.11 and anything above those to the internet. It can be done, it just might take a little bit of doing.
2006-11-16 10:49:57 · answer #2 · answered by Yoi_55 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on how old is old, as long as it is capable of running the protocols that are needed for Internet connection then i do not see why not.
2006-11-16 10:46:14 · answer #3 · answered by Bladerunner (Dave) 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not to my understanding w/out an upgrade on the computer, which will cost you about as much as a newer computer.
2006-11-16 10:51:30 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋