Should my modem stay on all the time? Is it safe from viruses if left on?

Let’s be clear that we’re talking about dial-up modems. By definition broadband modems are connected all the time.

In fact, if you think about it, a dialup modem that’s always connected is pretty much just a really slow broadband modem.

Sort of.

I will clarify that by “on” you mean connected. It’s certainly ok to leave your modem powered on at all times, whether or not you have dialed in. Dialing in and connecting to the internet is where the issues are.

You can certainly can leave it connected all the time if your ISP is ok with that. Many ISPs are not, and will drop the connection automatically after some period of inactivity. There are tricks you can play, of course, but those may well violate the terms of service with your ISP. So definitely check with them before staying connected continuously.

If you do stay connected for long periods of time, you should start thinking like a broadband user. That means taking all the precautions that a broadband user would take, including a firewall of some sort. Normally those steps aren’t as important for dialup users because the connections are typically of a shorter duration. You’re never 100% safe, but shorter connections mean fewer opportunities for infection and other problems.

So go ahead and connect, if you’re allowed, and simply take the extra precautions of a firewall, and of course, up-to-date virus protection.

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