MY machines (Intel 7700) are faster than my ISP connection ... but I'm thinking it's better to install a CD/USB OS, than to download - that way, I have it in my hands and don't depend on the Comcast ISP we have here, which sometimes at random, just disappears for minutes at a time ... not completely dependable as we are somewhat rural and the cable system is a bit dated...
Unless we ask Comcast, then it's not dated, it's perfect - NOT. :)
And I agree with the privacy issues - and will delete or shut off as much as possible. But, in the real world today, anyone that uses the web or does business with any company that uses the web, we're like an open book anyway ... the web knows more about me than I know about me -- I sometimes go online just to make sure I know who I am :)