More and more women are connecting to the internet

Online shopping was said to be one of the most popular uses, with 40% of women questioned admitting to feeling more independent by using the internet.

Holidays and flights topped the online shopping list, followed by clothes, music, DVDs and groceries.

Researchers for Broadband for Scotland, which promotes the benefits of faster connections, spoke to about 500 women.

The internet was also found to have changed their shopping behaviour, making them more likely to spend more, with 20% claiming they shop online for goods they would not normally go into a store for.

Broadband for Scotland is a joint initiative by the Scottish Executive, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, to provide businesses and home users with independent advice on broadband.

Anything that allows women to access information more quickly and frees up precious time is to be welcomed Susan Rice Lloyds TSB Scotland

Comedian Elaine C Smith, who has starred in adverts promoting broadband internet connection, advised people without the internet to get connected.

She said: "I was converted to broadband nearly two years ago. Once you've got a broadband connection, you'll wonder how you managed to use the internet without it."

Chief executive of Lloyds TSB Scotland Susan Rice admitted to relying heavily on her broadband connection - 10 times faster than regular dial-up connection - for completing everyday tasks.

She said: "The importance of broadband cannot be underestimated, as women have come to rely so heavily on the internet, not just for conducting business but also for other activities such as online banking and planning holidays.

"In Scotland there are more women than ever before in management positions, who are juggling demanding careers with their personal and family lives.