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Modems
and Dial-Up Networking: Windows Troubleshooter If you are using Windows 95 or 98, your first stop should be the Dial-Up Networking Troubleshooter that's already installed on your computer. Click on Start --> Help, then click on the "Index" tab in the Help window, and type "troubleshoot" in the box which asks you to type the beginning of the word you're looking for. Then select "Dial Up Networking Problems" from the listings offered. This will start the troubleshooter, which leads you through a series of questions and tests of your modem and networking set-up. The troubleshooter is designed to solve many of the more common connection problems. Update your Modem If you're having connection problems, it's a good idea to make sure that you have the most up-to-date drivers and configuration files for your modem. This is especially true if you have a software modem (also known as a "winmodem"). In traditional modems, most of the modem's functions are wired into the modem hardware. By contrast, a software modem has a simpler set of hardware, and much of the work is done by software that is loaded into Windows. Because of this, software modems are easier to upgrade than hardware modems. They are also much cheaper, which is their principal attraction. But software modems have a downside. They can only work with Windows, not with other operating systems. They are reputed to be more sensitive to phone line quality than hardware modems (although I haven't seen any statistics on this). And they are definitely more prone to conflicts with software, including AOL, printer drivers, and other programs you may have on your computer. To find the latest software for your modem (whether it is a winmodem or a conventional modem), go to the Web site of your computer manufacturer or modem manufacturer. Follow the instructions you find to download and install the software. Call Your ISP There are too many variables involved to expect your ISP's tech support to solve every connection problem. But they are there to help you get and stay connected, so why not use them? Check your ISP's Web site (if you can get on-line), or call the tech support phone number. Other Resources
If you've gone through all of this, and still haven't been able to resolve your problems, it's probably time to call in expert help. Don't feel bad – remember that these connection problems can be among the most complex and stubborn glitches that your computer can throw at you. Go
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