Mich
I was tempted to say "get broadband" but you have asked a good question that deserves a proper response.
I would suggest that you try a utility called "TweakMaster", however you must understand that there are more obstacles on the internet that will slow down a dial-up connection, such as congestion, poor infrastructure, etc., far beyond any utilities ability to help speed it up.
However, give TweakMaster a go.
TweakMASTER - The Supreme Internet Optimizer
UK Bob