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General discussion

Can't always get connected using dial-up!

Mar 23, 2007 1:04PM PDT

For the past two weeks I have been having problems getting connected to my ISP Netzero. I've had NZ over 2 years now and have always been able to connect. I either get a message saying cannot connect using the access numbers or it will say no dial tone. I got connected now but if I disconnect or my session ends I will have a problem getting connected again. I haven't changed any setting on my computer as I can get connected. I have also download ZoneAlarm and Windows Defender just prior to this connection problem.
I have WindowsXP SP2, Norton,Spysweeper,spywareblaster also and do maintain and scan daily.
Thanks for any advice.

techreader

Discussion is locked

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How does the phone line sound?
Mar 24, 2007 7:15AM PDT

A noisy connection will cause disconnects. Lift a receiver, dial one digit, any, and listen. You also might investigate new modem drivers.

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re:
Mar 24, 2007 8:51AM PDT

There is no noise in the phone line. Right now I did get connected without any problems. Last night I got connected and when my session ended and it auto redialed to connect, no luck. I'm wondering if it might be the Netzero software that I downloaded from Netzero. I did send for a Netzero CD, so when it comes I'll uninstall the software and use the CD and see if that helps. Would a virus cause something like this to happen? I have NAV and it seems to stop that sort of thing. I did a full scan last night with Norton and all was ok.
Thanks for responding, as I'm totally confused by this.
techreader

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Software. . .
Mar 24, 2007 11:53AM PDT

as in viruses or nasties downloaded will not cause disconnects, but a lousy phone line will.

In my experience, you don't need the software from ISPs. Just load modem drivers, set a username and password, and open IE or Fire Fox. But some ISPs keep you captive and you have to use their software. I've never like that.

Look in Device Manager, look at the modem properties, find it's name, and then search for updated drivers. Driverguide.com is a good place, or if you know the modem's manufacturer, go there.

I still think it's a lousy phone line. Call the phone company and tell them you have a noisy line. They'll have to test it and they may find something.

Wayne

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Free downloads!
Mar 27, 2007 11:52AM PDT

Is the Belarc Advisor installer like PC pitstop? I use pitstop and I like it. Just wanted to know which is better? I checked the driver for my modem and it is working fine (Device Manager) says. I did not update it, but I have been able to get connected for the last two days, holding my breath. I'm also wondering if Netzero server may have been at fault here? If I didn't live in the country I sure wouldn't have dial-up. Let me know about the Belarc software scan.
Thanks again,
techreader

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(NT) How do I investigate modem drivers?
Mar 24, 2007 8:53AM PDT