AOL changes

Milarky

Every time I log on to AOL I am reminded of the need to change my broadband settings.




I have used the disc which I received in the post but it just 'whirrs' and nothing happens. I obtained a second disc and the same thing happened. I don't think my PC's drive is malfunctioning.

I already use AOL 9.1 'VR' and think maybe that no setting changes are required if I already do. (AOL's message doesn't explain at all what is changing.)

Can anyone enlighten?

Thanks

mdbarber

Is this connection handled by a router?, if so that is where you need to change any settings, perhaps a call to the helpline may enlighten you as what settings, i suspect its to do with the integration into the talktalk network

mdbarber

No mention of aol in that page?, have you checked for spyware/malware in your system?
Does the disk read in my computer?, try copying all files from it to a folder on the hard drive.
PS if you have a router you don't actually need the aol software to get on the internet needs some working on tho

timbim_2

Doesn't need that much working on. You do need AOL software to view your bills and things online, which is a pain. Somewhere in your router settings there should be a box to tick to say that you require a password to log onto the internet. Tick the box, and enter your AOL usename and password. Then you can use thunderbird or the like to collect your email, then use decrapifier, or whatever it's called, to get rid of the AOL software. How I hate that browser!

esuhl

The CD probably just changes your internet connection settings (and possibly installs some rubbish software that you don't need). If you search the AOL website, they should tell you what your connection settings need to be, so you can set them manually.

If you really want to run the CD, I *think* you should be able to do this by double-clicking the drive in Windows Explorer. If that doesn't work, look for a file called "autorun.inf", double-click it to open it in Notepad, and look for the line "open=<filename>.exe". If you go back to Windows Explorer and double-click whatever filename was in autorun.inf, the CD should do what it should have done when you put it in the drive!

Milarky

I don't have a router, so maybe I'm unaffected by these 'changes'

@mdbarber: The message definitely pops up within the AOL browser at start up (every time!) so not a fake of any kind.

I would have thought that once changes are made (eg to the browser software) this would cause the warning window not to load - otherwise it's just going to be very annoying until I work out what I'm required to do here.

@timbim: you can get rid of the AOL browser, you say? Do you mean it's actually possible to logon without running the AOL client every time or even have it on your PC? I thought that the AOL client is unavoidable (Or are you only speaking of using it as a browser - because, obviously no one in their right sense does - you just minimize this and open NE other browser for a decent online experience)

Milarky

Here's the information from AOL:

http://help.aol.co.uk/important-information-updates-to-your-access/article/20071120074009990001

timbim_2

Yes, you can get rid of the AOL junk completely. I have. What sort of network would you need? I could probably suggest somthing.

Right. I have the Netgear DG834G. Does wired and wireless. When you get it, supposing you do, (they are quite expensive, £40 on ebuyer), install your microfilters, which you should have done already, plug in the router, plug in the telephone line and power, and plug it into a computer via an ethernet cable. Open up the browser of your choice, and type into the address bar 192.168.0.1. Open type in the username and password, username is admin, the password is witten on the router, and go to the basic settings tab. Select yes for "does your connection require a login", select PPPoE in the drop down box, and in the username and password box type in your full email address and password. Log out of the router, and the internet should work. I hope.

Hope that helped!
Tim

Milarky

@timbim: Fascinating. How does this work to replace the AOL cleint? Does the router act as a direct connection to the AOL network in 'PPPoE' mode? The login details remain stored in the router's memory and are thus forwarded by it instead of the AOL client?

I take it this provides a pure bypass and the AOL can just sit there on the desktop (as an unactivated icon) in case of problems? And email? That can be handled through Express or other programs already can't it - but it's a different set up?

Just on the particular model you mention - is this recommended because other routers cannot in general be reset by the user?

mdbarber

probably you are now out of the "can't cancel contract" stage with aol you could try phoning to cancel see if they will send you a router already set up.
be careful about un-installing the aol software til you have a router as some versions of this will also un-install the required drivers for the usb modem

deejayen

You can set up a New Network under windows picking the sign on to internet using name/password option (just follow the wizard Create a new network). This will allow you to use a USB modem -- You will have to use IE or another browser to connect but then you can get your AOL mail by logging on to aol.co.uk -- I used this before I dumped them -- Note that you will still need to use your AOL log-in to view your Billing etc. - dave