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Free, Fast, Dial up Internet Access

For Windows 98, ME


A dial-up is simply a method of connecting your computer, via the telephone line, directly to the web via our 'backbone' connection. It is entirely separate from any programmes you have installed (like Internet Explorer and Outlook Express) and any problems with your dial-up will also be entirely separate from those programmes. That is why we issue separate notes on configuring your computer to dial our connection. It is not necessary to use our connection but please note that if you already use another dial-up for your connection (for example a free service) you will need to configure your e-mail for your own domain. Please call if you require assistance in this regard.

It is not necessary to configure your machine with a CD or other software in order to gain access to the Internet. If your machine is a fairly capable PC or MAC it will already have the software built-in that makes Internet access a simple process.

The following details create a new, fast dial-up connection for you using either ISDN or modem and, once configured, you can continue to use other connections you may have or delete them, as you wish.

These details are for PC's using Windows 95,98 and ME. Macintosh users should advise us to receive separate details. (A modem connected to your computer or an ISDN adaptor is assumed).

The instructions are in black type. Other helpful information is placed on a grey background. Depending on the software version you are using (95,98 2002 etc.) there may be some minor variations on these instructions and if unsure you can call us on 01255 670 081 . However careful inspection of the various windows will usually reveal the appropriate option.

( 1.) Find the 'dial up' folder

First of all you need to find the 'dial-up' folder. This can be found in a number of ways (it may even be on the desktop).

(1.) If the "dial up" folder is on the desktop simply double click to open.

OR (2) Go to the start menu then look under: Programs-accessories-communications-dial-up networking. Highlight this and the 'dial-up' folder opens.

OR (3) Double click on the "my computer" icon on the desktop. When the window opens select the "dial-up networking" folder by double clicking on it. (It may be inside the "Control Panels" folder).

If none of these reveals the 'dial-up networking' folder you will have to search. Go to the 'start menu', then select 'find' and then files and folders. Finally, in the small window that opens, type in "dial-up networking". The computer will search and find the folder. Double click on the small icon that appears and the folder will open.


( 2.) Making the connection

 

 In the "dial-up networking" folder double click on the icon "make new connection".

A connection Wizard opens a new window.

In the first box ( Type a name for..............) put in MCLWEB.

In the second box (select a device) there should already be inserted the name of your modem or other connection device.

Press next,

Note: Most modern PC's come with an internal modem and the details will already be shown. However, if the name and details of your modem are not shown, you will need to configure the system in accordance with the instructions that came with the modem. Then press the configuration button and complete the details. Note: Sometimes this goes beyond simple installation and if you have modem installation problems you will need to call us for further advice (01255 670 081) or consult your local supplier.

If your modem or ISDN adaptor are already installed and you are having problems, you will need to re-check the installation notes that came with the product or consult the installer/supplier and show them these notes, to check your configuration.


Enter in the boxes:

 

Area Code: 0845 Telephone number:please enter telephone number received in relevant information notes.

Country Code: select: United Kingdom (44).

Tick "Use area code and dialling properties"

Under "connect using" should be the details of your modem so nothing else need be completed.

Press next and that's it - click Finish.

 In the "dial-up" window you should now have a new icon called MCLWEB

( 3.) Checking Details and Setting any Other Options

RIGHT click on the new MCLWEB icon just created, and a menu appears.

Select 'properties' at the bottom of the menu and LEFT click.

A window opens showing some of the details you have entered.

Under the GENERAL tag will be details you have already entered - you can check these if you wish.

Under SERVER TYPES should be:

"Type of dial-up server" PPP: Internet (plus some other information such as Windows 98 etc).

Under "Advanced options" ONLY "Enable software compression" should be ticked.

In particular "Log on to network" should NOT be ticked. If it is, change it, as this will considerably slow up access.

Under "Allowed network protocol" only TCP/ IP should be ticked.

Now click the TCP/ IP button at bottom right of this window and an additional window opens.

( 4.) Entering TCP/IP Details

In the window first panel select "server assigned IP address".

In second panel select "specify name server addresses". (other panels left blank).

At bottom tick "user IP header compression"

and also tick "use default gateway on remote network".

Click OK. - You are now back at the previous window. No other options need to be completed. Click OK.

( 5.) Testing The Connection

Now double click on the new MCLWEB icon and the connection window opens. (In future, and once you have configured Internet Explorer and Outlook Express, the dial-up can take place automatically).

Now you need to insert your username and password exactly as notified on a separate sheet with these notes.

The phone number will be as already entered. (see item 2 if unsure).

"Dialling from" will read something like: 'new location'. Leave this as it is.

The 'dial properties' button can be left alone if you use a standard telephone connection.

You are now ready to test the connection.

If you do use special internal phone protocols you will need to press the "dial properties" button and complete the details. (If, for example, you have to dial 9 for an outside line).

If you are using a lo-cost telephone provider who requires you to put in a special number before the dial code you need to do this here. Put the new number in the box "to access an outside line for local calls" and also in the box 'for long distance calls'. The modem will then dial these automatically without having to use a special connection box attached to your outside line.


Press "connect" and a small window will appear advising you of the connect status and if successful the connection will be made.

 

Sometimes an additional window will appear giving you information about the connection.

Note: For some users (if the preference has been selected) a small double computer icon has appeared in the task bar indicating that you are connected. You can double click on this at any time to check current connection status AND to disconnect if required. Notice that the small icon disappears when disconnection is complete.


(6.)Make a Short Cut on the Desktop

 

 Finally, to save time, you can make a shortcut of the MCLWEB icon so it is on the desktop. Right click on the icon and select shortcut. A window will tell you that it will create an icon on the desktop. Click OK. Now you only need to double click this on the desktop to make your connection in future.

If a shortcut is created in the existing folder, simply move the icon onto the desktop.


If you wish you are ready to configure your Internet Browser (Internet Explorer) and e-mail programme (Outlook Express) so that connection to our 'dial-up' is automatic when either of these programmes are opened. Although this is not essential please see our separate notes, (030) which may be enclosed, if you wish to do this.

 

Remember, at any time you can make the connection of your choice by clicking on the appropriate 'dial-up' icon either on the desk top or in the 'dial-up' folder.

We have not experienced many problems with separate 'dial-up's', but those we have, involve third party software customizing your computer software. The worst offenders are "AOL Compuserve MSL and Freeserve" and in some cases, if you wish to use a business dial-up, you will have to un-install or re-configure these programmes on your computer(s). These programmes are not generally business friendly and you will tend to have more problems with junk mail, connections and browsing.

Note: Normally both modem and ISDN connections are trouble free but in very rare cases less well known ISDN adaptors can cause problems and their configuration may cause conflict.

Our 'dial-up' does not interfere with your configurations and (because AOL and Compuserve do not use standard 'Explorer or Outlook Express') you may well find you can use them selectively, while installed on the same computer. Please call us if unsure of your options: 01255 670 081

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