Microsoft KB Archive/152184

= Microsoft Knowledge Base =

FastTips: Connecting to MSN Questions & Answers
Last reviewed: August 11, 1997

Article ID: Q152184

The information in this article applies to:


 * The Microsoft Network versions 1.0, 1.05, 1.2, 1.3

SUMMARY
This article contains the complete text of the "Connecting to MSN Questions & Answers" fax script.

This fax script is available to customers who call the Microsoft Network Member Support Line at (888) 676-8477.

MORE INFORMATION
1. Q. What modem speed can I use when connecting to MSN?

A. MSN supports modem speeds from 9600 to 33600 BPS.

2. Q. How can I tell at what speed I'm connected?

A. After you connect, double-click the modem icon that is on the right Side of your taskbar. This brings up a window that contains the Connection speed.

If you are using OSR2, double click on the linked computer icon.

3. Q. Why can't I connect to MSN via my Local Area Network (LAN)?

A. MSN does not work with most LAN connections. In order to connect to     MSN using a LAN, you need to be using an Internet connection that supports the MSN Membership System protocol, currently limited to     router based or remote winsock based Internet connections. HTTP Proxy servers do not currently support this feature. We are aware that this is a popular feature for many of you, and we are currently working diligently to make this service available.

4. Q. What is a roaming fee?

A. During signup for MSN, you specified your home country. When you Connect to MSN or the Internet in your home country, you are charged a standard connection fee based on your membership plan. If you travel outside of your home country and use an MSN supplied phone number to connect to MSN or the Internet in another country, you will be charged a roaming fee instead of the standard connection fee.

5. Q. Why does my modem often drop its connection?

A. If your modem often drops its connection, check your Modem Settings, Port Settings, and UART. For step-by-step instructions, please refer to the next three questions and answers.

6. Q. How do I check my Modem Settings?

A. To check your Modem Settings, follow these steps:

1. Double-click the Microsoft Network icon on your desktop. 2. On the MSN Sign In screen, click the Settings button. 3. Click the Modem Settings button. 4. Select the Connection tab. 5. Click the Advanced button. 6. Remove the check from the Error Control check box. 7. Flow Control should be set to Hardware. 8. Modulation Type should be set to Standard.

7. Q. How do I check my Port Settings?

A. To check your Port Settings, follow these steps:

1. On the Start menu, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2. Double-click the System icon. 3. Select the Device Manager Tab. 4. Open Ports on the list. 5. Double-click the Port your modem is on. 6. The Bits per Second should be set to 38400 if you have a 28800 modem and 19200 if you have a 14400 modem. 7. Flow Control should be set to Hardware.

8. Q. How do I check my UART?

A. To check your UART, follow these steps:

1. On the Start menu, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2. Double-click the Modems icon. 3. Select the Diagnostics tab. 4. Select the port your modem is on by clicking it. 5. Click the More Information Button. 6. Here you will see the UART.

The preferred UART is a 16550, because is handles higher speeds. If     your UART is 8250, make sure all modem settings are set to 9600, even if your modem is a 28800.

9. Q. Can I force MSN to dial without stopping at the Sign In screen?

A. It is not possible to avoid the Sign In screen when connecting to     MSN.

10. Q. How can I tell how long I have been connected?

A. Double-click the modem icon that is on the right side of your taskbar.