What is Dial-Up Internet?

Dial-up internet access is a connection type that operates through a standard telephone line. By running the telephone line to a modem device in the computer and configuring it to dial a specific phone number, the computer can connect to the internet.

How It Works

This type of internet access is offered through many internet service providers (ISPs). Most ISPs lease a set of telephone numbers that allows a computer to send information to network pipelines that feed into the internet. Subscribers to the ISP normally pay a monthly or yearly fee for online access at any time of the day or night. However, before a person can subscribe to a dial-up service, they must have a computer and a certain type of modem. A modem is a device that converts digital data into signals that can be sent over the phone line. Some models fit into a free slot inside the computer. However, others are external and connect to the machine with a cable. A telephone line is plugged into the modem to connect it to the phone system.

The modem is controlled by software in the computer which allows the user to set up a profile for the ISP. This will tell the modem what phone number to call and how to communicate with the service. The subscriber chooses a username and password or has one assigned by the ISP. Then, this information is transmitted by the modem to allow the user to connect to the device.

Advantages

Dial-up service is normally the least expensive type of internet access. It may even be free in some places, although often with advertising added to it. It is also available to anyone who has a phone line. Hence why, there’s no need for a separate connection to be added to a home. Most computers already have modems installed, so there’s often no additional hardware to buy to start the service.

Disadvantages

The biggest problem with dial-up is that it can be slower than others. Due to the limited bandwidth, which is the ability for the modem to send and receive data, downloading large files can take a very long time. Dial-up also depends on the regular telephone line. Therefore, a home must pay for regular phone service to connect. The phone cannot be used for any other purpose, such as calls, while the computer is using the line in most cases. Any disruption to the line will typically break the connection.

Recent Articles

Navigating the Internet Highway: A Comparison of Dial-up, Cable, and Fiber Optic Internet

In today’s digitally driven world, the internet has become a part of our daily lives. From streaming entertainment to remote work, the quality and speed of our connection can significantly impact our online experience. With various options available, such as dial-up, cable, and fiber optic internet, it’s essential to understand the differences between them to […]

A Better Connection Starts at the Local Level

It’s no secret — reliable internet connection is a necessity. Whether you’re working remotely, unwinding after a long week with an all-day streaming marathon, competing in a massively online gaming session, or connecting with loved ones over a video call, seamless online experiences start with the right internet service. With so many options, it can […]

Be Aware of Phone Scams: A Message from Empire Access

We wanted to take a moment to address an important issue that has recently come to our attention. Phone scams are targeting our customers. One of our customers received a suspicious call claiming to be from Empire Access. The customer reported that the caller, who had a foreign accent, stated that they needed to perform […]

Award-Winning Internet Service Provider

Empire Access continues to win accolades for our unwavering commitment to excellence.

When Empire came into my neighborhood, I decided to give them a shot. So grateful I did. Besides the LIGHTNING fast speeds, my favorite thing about Empire is their incredible customer service … can’t say enough good things about Empire Access. I’ve loved every day I’ve been able to use their internet services…

- Steve A.

I have to say that everyone that I have dealt with at Empire has been top notch… At times, I felt like we were their only customer. As far as the Fiber is concerned, it gives us reliability that we have not had — ever — and the speed that we desperately lacked…

- Joe C., Hunt Hollow Ski Club, Naples, NY
Hunt Hollow Ski Club, Naples, NY

I would just like to add that I am very happy that I changed providers! It’s so nice to get a real person who can answer my picky little questions right away without having to wait, thank you for everything.

- Sidney P., Hornell, NY
Young Woman Smiling

Fiber connectivity is amazing, and so are the folks who brought it to my house and keep it running smoothly. As always, especially when I have the luxury of not thinking about it at all, you have my thanks.

- Jason T., Big Flats, NY
Happy Fiber Customer

They got everything running in no time and were super helpful in setting up my home and answering questions. I truly appreciate the great service.

- Eric M., Corning, NY
Smiling Man

We are very thankful to Empire Access for selecting our area to be our service provider for fiber optic high speed internet and phone service. We are very happy with the speed they provide along with the unlimited data. My husband and myself were very impressed with everyone that we dealt with…

- Veda M., Elmira, NY
Happy Fiber Customer

Get started with Empire Access

Customized cost-saving solutions for internet, phone, TV, and security over a 100% fiber connection.

Online pricing is available to residential customers only.