| Commentary | When connected to the Internet via dial-up networking (DUN), the Windows taskbar displays an icon that tracks network activity. The icon changes color every second depending on whether the network link is currently sending and/or receiving data, and it disappears when the dial-up connection drops. This is a very convenient method for monitoring your network connection.

Unfortunately, Windows does not automatically provide the same feature for cable modem and other high-speed Internet connections. However, the DU Meter utility offers similar (and actually more sophisticated) functionality. If you miss that old blinking DUN icon, the DU Meter free download should satisfy your craving.