I'm guessing in this case since the poster has dial-up that we're talking about an internal built-in modem--but they are still hardware and can be faulty. Joan In a message dated 10/1/2008 2:42:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: If you're having a connectivity problem, I'd recommend that you turn off th e modum, unplug all the modum cords, wait a few minutes, reinstall the modum cords, and then reboot your computer. (Don't forget to turn the modum back on...grin.) Sometimes a modum "gets confused" and needs to be rebooted. This procedure has helped me in the past. Also, modums do wear out and once in a while have to be replaced. **************Looking for simple solutions to your real-life financial challenges? Check out WalletPop for the latest news and information, tips and calculators. (http://www.walletpop.com/?NCID=emlcntuswall00000001)