How to Remove AOL Dialer

The AOL Dialer can cause problems when you switch Internet providers.

The AOL software and Web browser are compatible with any type of Internet connection--even one provided by a company other than AOL. However, when you install the AOL software on your computer, the AOL Dialer is present even if you do not have a dial-up modem. This can cause a problem because the AOL Dialer may open automatically when you attempt to use the Internet even if you already have a connection. The AOL Dialer may also cause issues in some cases with Windows XP. Disable the AOL Dialer if you do not need to use it to connect to the Internet and its presence causes problems.

Instructions

Disabling AOL Dialer

1. Right-click the AOL icon in the lower-right corner of the screen, then click "Connect with AOL Dialer" or "Start AOL Dialer."

2. Click the "Connect Options" button at the bottom of the AOL Dialer window.

3. Click the "Advanced Broadband Settings" link, then click "Continue" if the "AOL Setup" window appears. If not, skip this step.

4. Click the "Dialer Settings" tab.

5. Remove the checks from the boxes next to "Start AOL Dialer when I turn on my computer and no connection is detected," "Automatically sign on" and "AOL should always check if it is the default dialer."

6. Click the "Broadband" tab, then click the "Continue" button.

7. Remove the checks from the boxes next to "Automatically reconnect me and ignore interruptions in the event of an unexpected disconnect" and "If Broadband fails, always connect with AOL Dial-Up using this connection."

8. Click the "Save" button to save your settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Open the "Internet Options" icon on the Control Panel if the AOL Dialer continues to appear when you launch Internet Explorer. Click the "Connections" tab and look for a dial-up connection with "AOL" in the name. Click it, then click "Remove."

• You can remove the AOL Dialer from your computer completely. However, this requires removal of the AOL software itself. Do not remove the AOL Dialer from your computer unless you no longer wish to use the AOL software.

References

• Houston Chronicle HelpLine: Annoyed by AOL
• AOL Canada Help: How Do I Get My AOL Dialer Icon to Display in the Windows Taskbar?
• Microsoft Support: Aol Dialer Causes an Error Message in Windows XP