Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Analyze any messages that appear on screen when the connection fails. Use this information to help you in your troubleshooting.
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Step 2
Check to ensure that the telephone number is correct, and that long-distance numbers are entered correctly.
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Step 3
Make sure that your password is entered correctly.
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Step 4
If you are using an external modem, check to be sure that it is still plugged into the computer and is turned on.
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Step 5
Check to ensure that the modem is still connected to the telephone jack.
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Step 6
If the modem is connected to a telephone line that is used for voice calls, make sure that the receiver isn't off the hook.
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Step 7
If your modem is connected to a telephone line that that is used for special features supplied by your telephone company (such as voice messaging), check to ensure that none of these special features is interfering with the modem (for example, a voice mail message can produce a funny dial tone).
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Step 8
The failed modem connection may stem from a problem at the other end. If you are trying to dial on to the Internet, contact your ISP to see if it is having technical problems. If you are trying to reach a a computer bulletin board, contact its system operator. If it is a faxed message, contact the recipient by phone and ask if the fax machine is turned on and working properly.
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Step 9
If using Windows 98, try the Modem Troubleshooters. (From the Start menu, select Help.)
Comments
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 Always start with a reboot. As an ISP support tech, I find that 99% of the time this has not been done when the customer calls and I estimate about 80% of the time, this fixes the problem. This is especially true with the cheap Winmodems (which most people use).