Yeah... The good part about the PS2 slim is that it comes built in with a network adapter. No need to go buy it separately like what you'd have to do with the PS2 original.

Graphics wise... I don't see any visual difference (maybe i'm gettin blind from playing PS2 too much). What I DO know is that, to have a real difference is that you need to get the higher end cables to get better graphics with the PS2.

Standard cables are the composite ones (Yellow = Video, Red+White = Audio), but you can get S-Video and Component cables for the PS2 and trust me... They do make a bloody big difference. Your games look clearer and sharper.

I've had many experiences with the PS2 for so many years. I've had 2 so far (the first one died after a year of pure joy and the second one is still purrin like a kitten without any problems)

When the PS2 slim came out, a bunch of my buddies all went out to get it. Some of them just die from being strained by the mad way my friends play but there are some exceptional ones that are still going strong.

The PS2 slim had many complaints when it was first launched. Some people even joked that Sony was trying to cut cost by using less plastic!!! The main concern here was the fact that the PS2 slim was just too..... slim... thus reducing airflow in the casing itself. Therefore, voila!!! you have the USB fan attachments that you can buy in most shops. Let's think about it SONY's R&D dept, would have did their work and made sure that the Slim doesn't "burn out" from playing. All in all, the USB fan attachment actually gives you peace of mind more than anything else.

Most importantly, you've gotta maintain the PS2. To those who have the fat version, please don't think it's more durable and thus can take more punishment. Switch it off properly, not just flippin the main power switch at the back. clean the vents and the fan (use compressed air). For the more daring ones out there, open it up and use a Q-tip dipped in Isopropyl Alcohol and clean the lens once in a while.

Do all these things and the PS2 will continue to give you countless hours of fun. My second PS2 is running for nearly 3 years without any problem. (Except for the time, the fan at the back died and I had to mod it myself by hooking up power from the front USB)

Hope this helps!!!
Cheers

You can actually get it done. DOn't know whether this would be considered *easy* or not?
refer to http://www.hdadvance.com/usb_extreme_whatis.htm

Hope that helps