Dial-up FAQs

The following are examples of frequently asked questions and answers. If your question is not here, please feel free to contact us for additional assistance.

Q. I can get connected, but I can't get any web pages...

A. Usually this is due to misconfiguration of DNS (domain name system) settings, which translates between domain name (such as "www.tde.com") and an Internet address that your computer needs to find the web site you want to view.

Please go through our setup and make sure you have the correct settings in your Dial-up Networking connection. If you have, please feel free to contact us.

Q. Why do I get dropped every so often?

A. You will get dropped from the Internet every so often if you do not have a "stable connection." This can be attributed to things such as line noise, static (often during or after rain storms), or weak phone lines.

Also, if you have any devices, such as answering machines, fax machines, portable phones, or other modems on the same phone line, they will draw power from the line, making your Internet connection less stable. Try disconnecting these other devices when using the Internet to see if they help. Through trial-and-error, you may find an offending device that's causing the trouble.

You may also experience disconnects when if you have call waiting. To disable this feature, simply place "*70," in front of the dial-up access number (without the quotes).

Q. I have a 56k modem, yet I can't get connected that fast. Why!?

A. It is normal for "56k" modems to connect at anywhere between about 40,000 bps to 53,000 bps. If you are experiencing a slower connection with your 56k modem, it may be very possible that you need upgraded drivers. This is a common occurrence, and upgrade drivers can be obtained from the manufacturer of your modem. (Often they can be downloaded online).

Low modem speeds can also be caused by the same issues as getting dropped periodically. Refer to the answers for that issue above.

Q. Is it possible to get connected at 56kps on a regular phone line?

A. No. The US government only allows connections no faster than 53kps. The maximum upload speed is currently 31.2 kps.

Q. You say that its not possible to get connected at 56k, but when I connect, it tells me that I'm connected at 56.6 or even 115.2?

A. Please understand that when your connection speed is shown, the speed shown in not necessarily your download and upload speed, depending on the modem you're using and how its drivers were written.

Some modems show actual line speed (modem to modem), while others show the port speed (i.e., the speed between your computer and the modem, which is always much higher). Your port speed could be set at 115.2 kbps yet you may only be connected at 44 kbps.

Q. I just bought a new computer / modem, so why would I need new drivers!?

A. If you have just purchased a new computer, or a new modem, they do NOT necessarily come with the most upgraded drivers. When modems are manufactured, and packaged the time between the actual packaging of the software and the time when you buy it at the store, could be months. Drivers for modems are put out every so often, and therefore could not possibly have the most upgraded drivers.

Q. It said that I was connected yet nothing is happening.

A. When you are in fact connected to the Internet, Windows users will see two green monitors by your clock on the lower right hand corner of the screen. If nothing happens, everything is still fine you will just need to open your Internet browser, or e-mail software.