I'm with Jim, go wireless. A few years ago I was in the same boat (dial up only). I bought an "Air Card" for my laptop and it worked very well. I finally got DSL about a year ago and makes everything else seem snail paced. I still use my Air Card when I'm on the road or even when the DSL is on the fritz.
Key thing would be to find which Cellular provider has the best coverage at you residence and go with them. Most providers have Wireless Cards and some even give you a 30-day trial period. Good Luck...unless you are bidding against me on E-bay, then stick to dial up, hehe