The way computers still connect to the internet. Modems are not outdated, and they are not for dial-up. High speedconnections such as broadband, DSL, and cable use modems. Even Wi-Fi adapters are modems! They are in no way obsolete.
A primitive and shitty device for accessing the Internet over a dialup (dialsuck) connection. If you're still using this, get a clue and upgrade to broadband.
I used to use a 28.8 kbps modem to access the Inernet. Now I use cable because I'm 1337.