No dial tone, random attempts to start AOL, spontaneous reboots

[baracuda]

Two WinXP computers on peer network have problems with dial tone errors after working properly since they were installed more than a month ago. Computer #1 is having additional issues -- it can establish a connection to dial up ISP (AOL) but not with the ISP for an electronic billing service that had been working properly for two weeks prior. Computer #1 is also spontaneously restarting after being shut down and AOL attempts to start radomly throughout the day when the computer is on. Computer #2 was workly properly with regard to dialing up the ISP but during the same time period, suddenly is not able to get a dial tone. Eliminated phone lines, modems and cable connections as source of dial tone problems. All other computers on network run Win98 and have no problems dialing ISP. Could this be a virual problem? If so, any suggestions as to which virus? I checked the registry on computer #1 for the blaster.exe value and did not find it. Any direction on what to look for would be so appreciated.
Baracuda

 

[thedaver]

There are a number of possible issues.

There are virii/spam/spyware proggies that like to connect to the 'net to do someting. If AOL is your default Internet connection then you are seeing those programs trying to reach the 'net and AOL is reporting its status in trying to oblige them.

Likewise, programs like RealPlayer have stub programs that ping the Internet to get "news" you might need. These too can trigger the default Internet (dialer) to fire up.

For the Dialtone problem, it sounds to me like you have too many wires in the circuit. Try removing as many links in the chain as you can (pull splitters, long runs, use other jacks) so that you can get a dialtone.

It is possible that recent telco activity in your area, not necessarily related to your service, may have compromised the quality of your service. All else fails, get the telco out to check line/dial quality.

Most dialers will allow you to check/uncheck the "detect dial tone before dialing" option.

I know our software doesis flexible in that way...


Surfinbox.com Business Internet Services - National Dialup, DSL, T-1 and more.

http://www.surfinbox.com/business/