Troubleshooting: Unable to Sign in to AOL

America Online (AOL) is a long-time content provider that offers access to the Internet. AOL has several services, including dial-up and broadband connections. Users install the AOL software on their computers, log in and browse AOL's content. Sometimes, issues arise and users are unable to connect to the service provider. You can troubleshoot the issue on your own before calling AOL tech support.

Instructions

1. Confirm that you are receiving an IP address from AOL. Open the MS DOS command prompt on your Windows computer and type "ipconfig." You should see an IP address, DNS and gateway listed for the AOL connection. No IP address listed can be caused by several problems. Reinstall the AOL software and check your modem or network card settings.

2. "Ping" a domain name to verify the DNS server settings are correct. "Ping" sends a small communication packet to the domain. If DNS servers are not set up properly, this service fails. Open the MS DOS command utility again. Type "ping domain.com" where "domain.com" is any domain on the Internet. Press "Enter" to verify DNS settings.

3. Verify that your user name and password are still active and the credentials you type in are accurate. If you have recently changed your password and you have the AOL software set to save the password, you must change it. AOL has its own user name and password separate from your DSL or broadband service, if you are connecting to AOL using your own Internet connection.

4. Reinstall the AOL software. If you accidentally deleted some AOL files or a virus corrupted files, reinstalling the software fixes the issue. You can reinstall the software without losing your currently-saved preferences.

References

• AOL: Troubleshooting