The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word DIALUP
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "connected via modem" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case connected via modem = dialup.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DIALUP mean?
DIALUP noun- A network connection that requires a telephone number to be dialed.
- (of a connection to a network, especially to the Internet) that requires a telephone number to be dialed