From 2400 to 56K

Modem speeds evolved over time. A 2400 bps connection could handle text well, but large files took patience. Upgrades to 9600, 14,400 and 28,800 bps noticeably improved transfers.

33.6 kbps became common, followed by 56K-class modems. Actual 56K downstream speeds were often lower and depended on the phone network and service provider.

Protocols like ZMODEM made transfers more robust and supported resuming interrupted downloads. For many BBS callers, a new modem meant more time exploring and less time watching a file-transfer progress bar.