The number of applications that still actually need a dial-up modem (or faxmodem) is shrinking fast, so they're getting harder and harder to find. But several of my clients still have line-of-business applications that require dial-up (e.g. electronic Medicare billing), and when they buy new computers the modem is always an afterthought. This modem works just fine, and installation couldn't be simpler: literally plug-and-play under Windows 7 or 8; it's recognized as a generic Conexant modem, and there's no need to fiddle with anything. My only complaint is that I remember when this would have cost $25 instead of $50... but that's just my age showing.

Installed easily, compatible with other modems and works with Hyperterminal. My only complaint is that there is no sound. Most modems simulate dial tones, but this modem does not provide any audio at all.

This will probably be the last of the fax modems that will ever be manufactured and sold. I like it because it's small and easy to use, once I get the software working (HylaFax on Linux). The software that comes with it for Windows and MacOS is old and useless, so I would suggest dragging out any old computer that may still be in a closet and loading Fedora or Ubuntu Linux and learning a new skill while you get your modem working.

The Zoom USB Modem is quite useful if you have a computer that does not include an internal modem, but you still need to access the internet via dial-up. After the initial installation (which is not complicated) you merely have to plug it into your USB port and plug a phone line into the modem to use it (of course you need a dial-up internet provider as well). It is small, so it can easily be taken with you, and it is just as fast as any other dial-up modem. It does not provide any form of speed boost, however, so don't expect broadband speeds. As with any dial-up connection graphics-heavy web pages can take several minutes to load, and watching video online is not practical.

This unit worked right out of the box under Windows 8. It can be purchased for less online, but I needed to replace a twenty-year old fax machine in a hurry and this filled the bill quite well.