Article ID: 327794 - Last Review: August 19, 2002 - Revision: 1.1

Dial-Up Connection to AOL Stops Responding While Initializing the Modem

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This article was previously published under Q327794
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SYMPTOMS

When you try to establish a dial-up connection to the Internet by using America Online (AOL) 7.0, you may receive the following message:
Initializing modem
After you receive this message, the modem stops responding and disconnects.

CAUSE

This problem occurs because of a timing issue between the AOL program and the Fax service in Windows XP. This problem can occur if the following conditions are true:
  • You configured your modem to function as a fax by using the Fax service in Windows XP.

    -and-
  • You tried to connect to AOL immediately after you installed and configured the Fax service or after you used the Fax service to send or receive a fax.

RESOLUTION

To work around this problem, wait approximately 15-20 seconds after you install or use the Fax service before you use AOL software to connect to the Internet.

STATUS

This problem occurs when you use Windows XP and AOL version 7.0.

MORE INFORMATION

For additional information about the Fax service in Windows XP, click the article number below to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
306550  (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306550/EN-US/ ) HOW TO: Enable and Configure the Fax Service in Windows XP
For more information about AOL, visit the following AOL Web site:
http://www.aol.com (http://www.aol.com)
Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

The third-party products that are discussed in this article are manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding the performance or reliability of these products.

APPLIES TO
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
Keywords: 
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