How to Get Dial-Up Internet Access

The following steps describe how to access the Internet using an The following steps describe how to access the Internet using an Internet service provider (ISP) and a computer modem. Many new computers include software that lets you set up an ISP account and connect to the Internet immediately.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Modems
• Computers

1. Buy a computer that has a modem or add a modem to your existing computer. Most Internet service providers require at least an Intel 386 processor (or a Macintosh of any vintage) and a 14.4-Kbps modem. Most new computers will easily satisfy these requirements.

2. Make sure your modem is properly installed, and connect it to the near-est phone jack using a phone cord.

3. Look on your computer's desktop for an icon that bears the name of an Internet service provider. If you find one, double-click on the icon and follow instructions to install the software and activate your account.

4. If you can't find an icon and you use Windows, open the Start menu and choose Settings, then Control Panel. In the window that appears, double-click the Internet Options control panel. Click the Connections tab, then click the Setup button at the top of the window.

5. On a Mac, look for the Internet Setup Assistant in the Apple menu.

6. If your computer doesn't come with Internet software, look in the yellow pages under 'Internet' for Internet service providers in your area.

7. Look for special offers from large, commercial ISPs on television, in newspapers and in the mail.

8. Contact a provider and request installation software.

9. Once you've received the software, follow the instructions on the pack-age to install the program and set up your account.

Tips & Warnings

• There are a number of other ways to go online besides a dial-up modem, including cable modems and digital subscriber lines (DSL) (see 92 'Choose a High-Speed Internet Access Method').

• Read your terms-of-service agreement carefully before signing on.

• Consider rates and fees, e-mail and other features, technical support and system requirements when choosing an ISP.

• Make sure your ISP offers connection speeds matching those of your modem'56 Kbps for a 56-Kbps modem, for example. Transferring data at 28.8 Kbps with a 56-Kbps modem is a waste of your modem's capacity.