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Frequently Asked Questions

Errors/Solutions

Numbered Error

Error 553: Domain is not in my list of RCTP Hosts (I can receive email but I can't send email)
Error 602: Port Already Open
Error 629: Port disconnected by the remote computer
Error 630: Port Disconnected due to Hardware Failure
Error 631: The Port was Disconnected by the User
Error 645: Internal Authentication Error
Error 650: Server not Responding
Error 666: Device not ready
Error 676: The line is busy
Error 677: A person answered instead of the modem
Error 678: Remote modem not responding
Error 680: There is no dial tone
Error 691: Username - Password Invalid

Unnumbered Error Messages - Alphabetical Order

Access Denied
Application Cannot Continue
Computer is not receiving a response from the modem
Configuration Error
Connection Failure - The member ID or password you have entered is incorrect
DUN (Dial-up Networking) not installed
Kernel32.DLL
Microsoft Dial-Up Adapter is not installed
Modem does not exist, is not plugged in, or is out of service
Proxy Server
TCP/IP not installed
Unable to login to the server using Secure Password Authentication
Unable to open outgoing mail file
You do not have any accounts configured for sending email

Issues with no Error Message - Alphabetical Order

I can't obtain a stable connection with US Message
I can't view Web pages
I get disconnected after sending and receiving email
My computer "Freezes" (locks up) when I use US Message


Numbered Error

Error 553: Domain is not in my list of RCTP Hosts (I can receive email but I can't send email)

This information is for Windows XP users only.

If you are able to receive email but can't send any, you may be getting a 553 error, which can be caused by a variety of reasons. The following information should help you to determine the cause of the error and offer a solution. After you perform a step, try to send mail again. If you face the same problem, move on to the next step.

  1. Have you configured your email program to not use authenticated SMTP?

    US Message does not require that you use authenticated SMTP if you want to send your US Message email when connected with a third-party Internet Service Provider (ISP) or a Local Area Network (LAN). For instructions on how to setup your email program to de-select authenticated SMTP, follow the instructions below for your applicable email software platform.

    Microsoft Outlook(r) 2003

    1. On the Tools menu, click E-mail Accounts.
    2. Select View or change existing e-mail accounts, and then click Next.
    3. Select the name of the e-mail account, and then click Change.
    4. Click More Settings.
    5. On the Outgoing Server tab, verify that the My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication check box is not selected.

    Microsoft Outlook 2002

    1. Open Outlook
    2. From the Tools menu, select Email Accounts.
    3. Click once on Internet email to highlight it.
    4. Click on the Properties button.
    5. Select the Servers tab.
    6. In the Incoming mail (POP3) text box, type postoffice.usmessage.net.
    7. In the Outgoing mail (SMTP) text box, type mail.usmessage.net.
    8. Important: Uncheck the box next to My server requires authentication.
    9. In the Account name text box, type your email address without the @usmessage.net.
    10. In the Password text box, type your password.
    11. Click on Apply and OK.

    Microsoft Outlook 98

    1. Open Outlook.
    2. From the Tools menu, select Services (If you do not see Services listed, select Accounts).
    3. Click once on Internet Email to highlight it.
    4. Click o the Properties button.
    5. Select the Servers tab.
    6. In the Incoming mail (POP3) text box, type postoffice.usmessage.net.
    7. In the Outgoing mail (SMTP) text box, type mail.usmessage.net.
    8. Important: Uncheck the box next to My server requires authentication.
    9. In the Account name text box, type your email address without @usmessage.net.
    10. In the Password text box, type your password.
    11. Click on Apply and OK.

    Outlook Express

    1. Open Outlook Express.
    2. Click the Tools menu and select Accounts.
    3. Select the Mail tab.
    4. Select your US Message account by clicking on it once.
    5. Click the Properties button on the right.
    6. The Properties screen will be displayed.
    7. Under Outgoing Mail Server uncheck the box next to My server requires authentication.
    8. Click Apply and then click OK.
    9. Click the Close button to finish.

  2. Verify that you have configured your email program correctly.

    For instructions on how to configure your email program to check your US Message mail, follow the instructions below for your applicable email software platform.
    Click here for info.

  3. Try another access number.

    In some cases the 553 error will stop by changing the access number. For instructions on how to change your access number, please click here.

    This is where the dialer software instructions would appear.

  4. I have tried each of the solutions above, but none have worked. You should contact a US Message representative to obtain further assistance on this matter. Please call 1-866-323-7724. In the interim, you can send and receive email using the web based email interface. You can reach the sign-in page by clicking on the following url: http://postoffice.usmessage.net/src/login.php. Once there, you can enter in your Member name and password.

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Error 602: Port Already Open
There are several possible causes for this error. The steps below should help you pinpoint the cause of the problem and offer a solution.

A. Have you checked your modem and phone cord ?

A bad modem or the phone cord not being plugged in might be the culprit. Make certain that all of your phone line connections going in and out of the modem are tight and secure, then try to connect to US Message again.

B. Have you completely restarted the computer ?

Try shutting down and unplugging the computer for 1 minute. Restart the computer and try to connect to US Message again.

Note: If you have an external modem with a separate power cord, once the computer is shutdown, unplug the modem power for 1 minute, plug the modem back in, then turn on the modem and restart the computer before attempting to dial again.

C. It is possible that another program has accessed your modem and has not released it.

It is possible that another software program, such as fax software, is holding on to your modem. The modem can not dial another number until the software releases it. To verify whether your modem is being used by another program, please follow the steps below:

  • For Windows 95/98 Users:

     

    1. Press and hold the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys at the same time.
    2. A window will appear, listing all of the programs running on your system.

    1. For every program except Explorer and Systray, click once on each program listed to highlight it and click on the End Task button.

      Note: Each time that you click on the End Task button, you will have to press and hold the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys to bring the Close Program window back up.

       

    2. Try your US Message connection again. If this resolves the problem, close US Message and restart your computer. Repeat Steps 1 through 3, clicking End Task for only one program at a time. Each time you use End Task, try your US Message connection again. When you stop receiving the error, the last program you used End Task on is the one creating the conflict.
    3. Once you've found the conflicting program, close it before you logon to US Message. You can contact the manufacturer to see if they have more information about a solution so you can use both US Message and this program at the same time.

    After disconnecting from US Message, you can launch the applications that you had closed again by rebooting your computer.

     

  • For Windows NT Users:
    1. Press and hold the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys at the same time.
    2. Click on the Task Manager button.
    3. For every program except Explorer and Systray, click once on each program listed to highlight it and click on the End Task button.

      Note: Each time that you click on the End Task button, you will have to press and hold the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys to bring the Close Program window back up.

       

    4. Try your US Message connection again. If this resolves the problem, close US Message and restart your computer. Repeat Steps 1 through 3, clicking End Task for only one program at a time. Each time you use End Task, try your US Message connection again. When you stop receiving the error, the last program you used End Task on is the one creating the conflict.
    5. Once you've found the conflicting program, close it before you logon to US Message. You can contact the manufacturer to see if they have more information about a solution so you can use both US Message and this program at the same time.

    After disconnecting from US Message, you can launch the applications that you had closed again by restarting your computer.

    D. Is your modem configured correctly ?

    If your modem is not configured correctly, US Message will not function. To verify that your modem configuration is correct, please complete the following steps:

    1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
    2. Double-click the Modems icon.
    3. Select the Diagnostics tab.

    1. Click on the appropriate Com Port where your modem is listed.
    2. Click on the More Info button.

    1. If your modem is configured correctly, it should display port information regarding your modem. Click OK to exit.

      Note: If you receive an error message, then you will need to configure your modem. This may require that you reinstall your modem drivers and/or configure your modem settings. If this is the case, you should contact your modem or computer manufacturer for information on configuring your modem. If you are on a LAN (Local Area Network), contact your Network Administrator for assistance.

    2. On your desktop, double-click the My Computer icon.
    3. Double-click the Dial-Up Networking icon.
    4. Click once on the US Message icon to highlight it.
    5. From the File menu, select Properties.

    1. From the Connect Using drop-down menu, select your modem.
    2. Click OK. Close all windows before attempting to dial US Message again.
  • RETURN TO TOP


    Error 629: Port disconnected by the remote computer

    To resolve this issue, first try using an alternate access number, if one is available. For a list of available access numbers, click here.

    Important: Contact your local phone company to ensure the access number is local.

    If this does not resolve the issue, please follow the steps below:

    A. Verify your encryption settings

    1. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
    2. Double-click the Dial-Up Networking icon.
    3. Click once on the US Message icon to highlight it.
    4. From the File menu, select Properties.
    5. Select the Server Types tab.
    6. Ensure that the option labeled Require encrypted password is NOT checked.
    7. Click OK.
    8. Click OK again.
    9. Retry the US Message connection.

    If the problem persists, continue with Step B.


    B. Verify modem settings

    1. Click on the Windows Start button.
    2. Point to Settings and select Control Panel.

    1. Double-click on the Modems icon. If you already have a modem setup, you will see a window beneath the words "The following modems are set up on this computer."

    1. Click on the Properties button.

    1. Under Maximum Speed, select the appropriate port speed for your modem. For 14.4 modems use 19200, for 28.8 modems use 38400 and for 56k use 57600.
    2. Uncheck Only connect at this speed.
    3. Select the Connection tab.

    1. Under Call Preferences, ensure that the box marked Cancel the call if not connected within is unchecked.

      Note: Some modems may not allow you to change the call preferences.

       
    2. Click OK.
    3. Click Close to exit.
    4. Retry the US Message connection.

    If the problem persists, continue with Step C.


    C. Verify Network Settings

    If the problem persists, follow the steps below to verify your network settings.

    1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
    2. Double-click the Network icon.
    3. Check to see if you have the following components:

       

        Client For Microsoft Networks
        TCP/IP or TCP/IP > Dial Up Adapter
        Dial-Up Adapter.

    Note: If you are on a Network or company LAN, contact your system administrator before making any network changes.

    If the components listed above are not present, then you will need to add the missing component(s). If all of the components are listed, skip to the Verify Network Settings section below.

      IMPORTANT! Only add a component if it is not already present. If the component is listed, you will not need to add it.


    To Add Client for Microsoft Networks:

    1. Click on the Add button.

    1. Select Client.
    2. Click on the Add button.

    1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
    2. Under Network Clients, select Client for Microsoft Networks.
    3. Click OK.

    To Add Dial-up Adapter:

    1. Click on the Add button.

    1. Select Adapter.
    2. Click on the Add button.

    1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
    2. Under Network Adapters, select Dial-Up Adapter.
    3. Click OK.


    To Add TCP/IP:

    1. Click on the Add button.

    1. Select Protocol.
    2. Click on the Add button.

    1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
    2. Under Network Protocols, select TCP/IP.
    3. Click OK.

    Once you've added any necessary components, follow the steps below.

    1. Click once on TCP/IP to highlight it and click on the Properties button.

    1. Select the DNS Configuration tab and ensure that Disable DNS is checked.

    1. Select the WINS Configuration tab and make sure that Disable WINS Resolution is checked.
    2. Click OK.

    1. In the Primary Network Logon field, ensure that Client for Microsoft Networks is selected.
    2. Click OK.
    3. Click on Dial-up Adapter once to highlight it.
    4. Click on the Properties button.

    1. Select the Advanced tab and click once on Use IPX Header Compression to highlight it.
    2. Under the Value drop-down menu, select NO.
    3. Click OK and OK again.
    4. When you are prompted to restart you computer, click YES.
  • Windows 98 Users:

    Check to see that Dial-Up Networking is installed on your computer by following these steps:
    1. On your desktop, double-click the My Computer icon .
    2. If you see a Dial-Up Networking icon, Dial-Up Networking is installed. Close My Computer and try logging on to US Message again by double-clicking on the US Message icon on your Desktop.
    3. If you do not see a Dial-Up Networking icon, close My Computer, then click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
    4. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

    1. Select the Windows Setup tab, and double-click on Communications.

    1. Put a check in the box next to Dial-Up Networking, Hyperterminal and Phone Dialer.
    2. Click OK and click OK again to exit.
    3. Close the Control Panel and try logging on to US Message again.
  • Windows 95 Users:

    If you are running Windows 95, check to see what version you have. If you have an older version, you may need to download the latest version of Dial-Up Networking (version 1.3). To check what version of Windows 95 you are running, please follow these steps:
    1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
    2. Double-click on the System icon and select the General tab.
    1. Under System, you will see listed the Operating System, Edition and version number. The version number will start with 4.00.950. Check to see if a B or C is listed after 4.00.950. If not, you will need to download and install Dial-Up Networking 1.3. Click here to download it.
    2. If there is no letter at all after 4.00.950, then we suggest you also download and install Service Pack 1 for Windows 95. You can download it by clicking here.

      Note: You will need to scroll down to the Service Packs section.

    RETURN TO TOP


    Error 630: Port Disconnected due to Hardware Failure
    Windows 95/98/NT
    Windows Me Users click here Note: You will be unable to use the Dial Up Networking connection alone to connect. Instead, please double-click the US Message icon on your desktop.

    The 630 Hardware Failure error is generally caused by another modem being used in the Dial-Up Networking connection for US Message. To resolve this issue, please complete the steps below.


    First you will need to know what modem is installed.

    1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
    2. Double-click the Modems icon and select the Diagnostics tab.

    1. Click once on the COM port that your modem is on to highlight it.
    2. Click on the More Info button. If this is a working modem you should get a response with information about your modem. If you do not receive any information or if you receive an error, this is not your modem. Click OK to go back to the Modem Properties window and repeat Steps 4 and 5, selecting different COM ports, until you find your modem.
    3. When you find you modem, click OK, then OK again to exit the Modem Properties window.
    4. Close all open windows and double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
    5. Double-click the Dial-Up Networking icon.
    6. Click once on the US Message icon to highlight it. From the file menu select Properties.
    7. Ensure that the correct modem is selected in the Connect Using field. If the modem listed is not the correct one, click on the down arrow to the right of the box and select the correct modem.
    8. Once you've done this, click OK, and close all open windows.
    9. Try to connect to US Message again.


    If you are still receiving the same error, you will need to perform a "cold boot." To do this, follow the steps below.

    1. Click on the Windows Start button and select Shut Down.

    1. Select Shut Down and click OK.
    2. Once the computer has shut down, turn the power off and unplug the computer from the wall outlet for one minute.
    3. After one minute, plug the computer power back in and turn the computer on again.
    4. Try your US Message connection again.

      RETURN TO TOP


      Error 631: The Port was Disconnected by the User
      This error is usually caused by an interruption in the connection by you or your computer. Make sure that you wait for the connection to complete and do not hit cancel. If it is taking a very long time to connect, please try the following steps.

      A. Have you tried another access number ?

      Your connection may have been dropped due to technical difficulties with the access number you are using. Try connecting to US Message again. If the problem persists, try using another access number in your area. For instructions on how to change your access number please click here.



      B. Do you have Call Waiting ?

      If you have Call Waiting enabled, you may be disconnected from the Internet when someone tries to call you. To disable Call Waiting, please follow these steps:
      1. Double-click the US Message icon on your desktop.
      2. Check the box for Disable Call Waiting
      3. Click the Connect button to connect to US Message. Call Waiting will be disabled for the call and you should not be interrupted while online.

      C. Verify your modem settings

      If your modem is not configured correctly, you will experience problems connecting. To verify your modem settings, please follow the steps below.

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Modems icon.

      1. Click once on the modem that is installed to highlight it and click on the Properties button.

      1. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.

         

          A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
          B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.


         

      2. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      3. Click OK, then OK again and close the Control Panel.
      4. Double-click on the My Computer icon on your desktop.
      5. Double-click on the Dial-Up Networking icon.
      6. Click once on the US Message icon to highlight it. From the File menu, select Properties.
      7. Ensure the correct modem is selected in the Connect using field.
      8. Click on the Configure button.

      1. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.
        A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
        B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.
      2. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      3. Click OK, then OK again and close the Control Panel.

      RETURN TO TOP


      Error 645: Internal Authentication Error
      Windows 95/98/NT

      There may be a problem with your network configuration or a new incompatibility between your modem and upgraded modems on the access number you are using. The following instructions should help you optimize your configuration for use with US Message.

      Windows Me users click here.

      A. Is your modem configured correctly ?

      To check your modem settings, please follow the steps below.

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Modems icon.



         
      3. Click once on the modem that is installed to highlight it and click on the Properties button.



         
      4. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.

          A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
          B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.

      5. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      6. Click OK, then OK again and close the Control Panel.
      7. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
      8. Double-click the Dial-Up Networking icon.
      9. Click once on the US Message icon to highlight it. From the File menu, select Properties.
      10. Ensure the correct modem is selected in the Connect using drop-down menu.
      11. Click on the Configure button.



         
      12. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.

          A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
          B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.

      13. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      14. Click OK, then OK again to close Dial-Up Networking.


      B. Are you running Windows 95 ?

      If you are running Windows 95, check to see what version you have. If you have an older version, you may need to download the latest version of Dial-Up Networking (version 1.3). To check what version of Windows 95 you are running, please follow these steps:

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the System icon and select the General tab.
      3. Under System, you will see listed the Operating System, Edition and version number. The version number will start with 4.00.950. Check to see if a B or C is listed after 4.00.950. If not, you will need to download and install Dial-Up Networking 1.3. Click here to download it.

        If there is no letter at all after 4.00.950, then we suggest you also download and install Service Pack 1 for Windows 95. You can download it by clicking here.

         

          Note: You must scroll down to the Service Packs section.


      C. Check your network settings

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Network icon.

        IMPORTANT! Before making any changes to your Network settings, please ensure that you have your Windows CD.



         
      3. Remove Dial-Up Adapter, Client for Microsoft Networks, and Microsoft Family Logon by highlighting each one and clicking on the Remove button.
      4. Once all of these have been removed, click OK.
      5. You may be asked for your Windows CD. Insert it into your CD-ROM drive and click OK.



         
      6. When you are asked to reboot, click YES.
         
      7. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      8. Double-click the Network icon.



        Note: Check to see if you have the following components:

         

          Client For Microsoft Networks
          TCP/IP or TCP/IP > Dial Up Adapter
          Dial-Up Adapter

      If you are on a Network or company LAN, contact your system administrator before making any network changes.

      If the components listed above are not present, then you will need to add the missing component(s). If all of the components are listed, skip to the Verify Network Settings section below.

      IMPORTANT! Only add a component if it is not already present. If the component is listed, you will not need to add it.

      To Add Client for Microsoft Networks:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Client.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Clients, select Client for Microsoft Networks.
      3. Click OK.


      To Add TCP/IP:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Protocol.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Protocols, select TCP/IP.
      3. Click OK.

      Once you have confirmed that the three required Network components are installed, ensure that TCP/IP is correctly configured.
      To Add Dial-up Adapter:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Adapter.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Adapters, select Dial-Up Adapter.
      3. Click OK.



      D. Verify your network settings

      Once you've added any necessary components, follow these steps:

      1. Click once on TCP/IP to highlight it and click on the Properties button.

      1. Select the DNS Configuration tab and make sure that Disable DNS is checked.

      1. Select the WINS Configuration tab and ensure that Disable WINS Resolution is checked.
      2. Click OK.

      1. In the Primary Network Logon field, ensure that Client for Microsoft Networks is selected.
      2. Click OK.
      3. When prompted to restart your computer, click OK.
      4. Retry your US Message connection.
      Error 645: Internal Authentication Error - Windows Me

      There may be a problem with your network configuration or a new incompatibility between your modem and upgraded modems on the access number you are using. The following instructions should help you optimize your configuration for use with Joi Internet.


      A. Is your modem configured correctly ?

      To check your modem settings, please follow the steps below.
      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Modems icon.



         
      3. Click once on the modem that is installed to highlight it and click on the Properties button.



         
      4. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.

          A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
          B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.

      5. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      6. Click OK, then OK.
      7. In the Control Panel, double-click the Dial-Up Networking icon.
      8. Click once on the Joi Internet icon to highlight it. From the File menu, select Properties.
      9. Ensure the correct modem is selected in the Connect using drop-down menu.
      10. Click on the Configure button.



         
      11. Select the General tab and look for the Maximum Speed section. Change the settings to match your modem.

          A. If you have a 28.8 or 33.6 modem, select 38400.
          B. If you have a 56k V.90 or Flex modem, select 57600.

      12. Verify that the box for Only connect at this speed is NOT checked.
      13. Click OK, then OK again to close Dial-Up Networking.


      B. Check your network settings

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Network icon.

      Note: If you do not see Network listed then click view all Control Panel options located on the left side of the window.

        IMPORTANT! Before making any changes to your Network settings, please ensure that you have your Windows CD.



         

      1. Remove Dial-Up Adapter, Client for Microsoft Networks, and Microsoft Family Logon by highlighting each one and clicking on the Remove button.
      2. Once all of these have been removed, click OK.
      3. You may be asked for your Windows CD. Insert it into your CD-ROM drive and click OK.
      4. The following window will appear:



         
      5. Click Yes to restart your computer.
      6. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      7. Double-click the Network icon.



        Note: Check to see if you have the following components:

         

          Client For Microsoft Networks
          TCP/IP or TCP/IP > Dial Up Adapter
          Dial-Up Adapter

      If you are on a Network or company LAN, contact your system administrator before making any network changes.

      If the components listed above are not present, then you will need to add the missing component(s). If all of the components are listed, skip to the Verify Network Settings section below.

      IMPORTANT! Only add a component if it is not already present. If the component is listed, you will not need to add it.

      To Add Client for Microsoft Networks:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Client.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Clients, select Client for Microsoft Networks.
      3. Click OK.


      To Add TCP/IP:

      If TCP/IP is not listed under Network Components then please follow these instructions to add it. If it is listed then please skip down to Add Dial-up Adapter.

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Protocol.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Protocols, select TCP/IP.
      3. Click OK, then click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      4. Click Yes to restart your computer.


      To Add Dial-up Adapter:

      In order to add the Dial-Up Adaptor component, you will need to uninstall and reinstall Dial-Up Networking by following the instructions below.

      Uninstalling Dial-Up Networking

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

      1. Select the Windows Setup tab.
      2. Click once on Communications to highlight it.
      3. Click on the Details button.

      1. Click in the box next to Dial-Up Networking to remove the check mark.

      1. Click OK

      1. Click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      2. Click Yes to restart your computer.


      Reinstalling Dial-Up Networking

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

      1. Select the Windows Setup tab.
      2. Click once on Communications to highlight it.
      3. Click on the Details button.

      1. Check the box next to Dial-Up Networking.

      1. Click OK

      1. Click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      2. Click Yes to restart your computer.


      Once you have confirmed that the three required Network components are installed, ensure that TCP/IP is correctly configured.


      C. Verify your network settings

      Once you've added any necessary components, follow these steps:

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Network icon.

      Note: If you do not see Network listed then click view all Control Panel options located on the left side of the window.

      1. Click once on TCP/IP to highlight it and click on the Properties button.

      1. Select the DNS Configuration tab and make sure that Disable DNS is checked.

      1. Click OK. The following window will appear:



         
      2. Click Yes to restart your computer.

      Try your Internet connection again.
       

      RETURN TO TOP


      Error 650: Server not Responding
      Windows 95/98/NT

      Windows Me Users click here.

      Runtime error 650 is a common connection error that occurs when your computer cannot establish a connection. Follow the steps below to resolve the issue.

      A. Is your access number valid ?

      To find available access numbers in your area, click here.

      B. Configure the Windows Network Components for Dial-Up-Networking

      The following instructions are for those systems that are not on a Local Area Network (LAN). If you are on a LAN and follow these directions, you may create a conflict that will disrupt your computer's connection to your network. Please contact your network administrator for assistance before you continue making any changes to the system configuration.

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.

      1. Double-click the Network icon.

      1. What you will find listed under the Configuration tab will depend on your version of Windows. US Message requires three network components total, but you may have more or less listed. The three that are required are:
         
        • Client for Microsoft Networks
        • Dial-Up Adapter
        • TCP/IP

        Note: You may see TCP/IP->Dial-up Adapter grouped together.



      To Add Client for Microsoft Networks:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Client.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Clients, select Client for Microsoft Networks.
      3. Click OK.


      To Add Dial-up Adapter:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Adapter.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Adapters, select Dial-Up Adapter.
      3. Click OK.


      To Add TCP/IP:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Protocol.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Protocols, select TCP/IP.
      3. Click OK.

      Once you have confirmed that the three required Network components are installed, ensure that TCP/IP is correctly configured.


      C. Check Network Settings

      1. On your desktop, double-click the My Computer icon.

      1. Double-click the Control Panel icon.

      1. Double-click the Network icon.

        IMPORTANT! Before making any changes to your Network settings, please ensure that you have your Windows CD.

        Note: In the Primary Network Logon drop-down menu, ensure that Client for Microsoft Networks is selected.

         

      1. Double-click TCP/IP->Dial-Up Adapter.

        Note: If you get a TCP/IP Properties Information window, click OK.

      1. Ensure that only the circle next to Obtain an IP address automatically is checked.
      2. Select the WINS Configuration tab.

      1. Ensure that only the circle next to Disable WINS Resolution is checked.
      2. Select the Gateway tab.

      1. Ensure that all the fields are blank.
      2. Select the DNS Configuration tab.

      1. Ensure that the circle next to Disable DNS is checked.
      2. Select the Bindings tab.

      1. Ensure that only Client for Microsoft Networks is checked.
      2. Select the Advanced tab.

      1. Ensure that None is in the Property field.
      2. Select the NetBIOS tab.

      1. No changes are necessary.
      2. Click OK.
      3. Click OK to exit.


      D. Next, you will need to set up this computer's identity.

       

      1. Select the Identification tab at the top of the Network properties window. We will want to change the entry here for Computer Name.

        Here is an example:
        • Computer Name:  US Message
        • Workgroup:  Workgroup
        • Computer Description:  Mine
      1. Click OK.

      You may now be prompted for the Windows CD-rom, or the file copy may begin automatically. If prompted for the Windows CD, insert the CD and click OK. If you are still prompted for it after clicking OK, verify that the drive letter listed in Copy files from is your CD-rom drive.

      Note: If, during this process, you see a warning about "Version Conflict" or "A file being copied is older," click No. If you are prompted that the "file is not found," you are not using the CD-rom that was used to install Windows on your machine.

        Note: If you made any changes or added any components, the following window will appear.



        Click Yes to restart your computer.

      When Windows restarts, you may see a dialog box asking for a Username and Password to log in.

      For Username, enter the same name that you entered for Computer Name in the prior step in the same lower case format. Do not enter a Password. Click OK. If asked to confirm, click OK.



      E. Identifying and Disabling 56k Modems

      This procedure will disable any 56k protocols that your modem supports. While this will slow down the modem's initial connection rate, it will stabilize the connection.

      Note: US Message does not support 56K X2.

      From region to region, the quality of the phone lines will vary. In some areas, your phone lines may not support high speed modem connections due to phone lines of marginal quality. Please contact your local phone company for details in your area. In order to get a stable connection, you will need to identify your modem and place an extra setting (or INIT STRING) in Modem properties.


      To identify your modem

       

      1. Disconnect any active connections and reboot the computer if necessary.
      2. Click on the Windows Start button.
      3. Point to Settings and select Control Panel.

      1. Double-click on Modems.
      2. Select the Diagnostics tab.

      1. Select the Com Port that the modem is on and click on the More Info button.

      You can find the name of the manufacturer listed under the Command and Response table of the More Information screen. You may see US Robotics, 3Com or LT WinModem. If you own a Rockwell modem, the listing for ATI3 would be either a number in the form 2.x.xxx.x or 2.xxx_k56flex. A 56k Cirrus Logic modem would be indicated by CL-MD-56xx or something similar.

      To add the Extra Setting:

      1. Click on the Windows Start button.
      2. Point to Settings and select Control Panel.

      1. Double-click the Modems icon.

      1. Highlight your modem and select Properties (NOT dialing properties).

      1. Select the Connection tab.
      2. Click on the Advanced button.

      1. At the bottom, there is a field called Extra Settings.

        For US Robotics modems you have three options, type:
        1) For USRobotics, Sportster 28.8 V.34 modems use "AT&F1&D0S0=0"
        2) For USRobotics, Sportster 28.8 & 33.6 modems use "AT&F1S15=12"
        3) For USRobotics, Sportster 56K X2 (off) use "s32=32"

        Note: US Message does not support X2 dial up connections, so by using the above INIT string it will turn the X2 technology off, and allow you to connect.

        For LT Winmodems you have three options, type:
        1) For Lucent Technologies, LT WinModem use "AT&FX "
        2) For Lucent Technologies, LT Winmodem 56Kflex (Disabled) use "S38=0"
        3) For Lucent Technologies, LT Winmodem V.90 (Disabled) use "-V90=0"

        For PCTel modems you have three options, type
        1) PC-Tel, 28.8 & 33.6 modems use
        "AT&D2&C1X4V1Q0S7=70W2\N3&K3"
        2) PC-Tel, HSP Deluxe 33.6 modems use "AT&F&C1&D2&K3W1"
        3) PC-Tel, 'MicroModem' modems use "AT&F&C1&D2&K3W1"

        For Rockwell modems you have three options, type:
        1) Rockwell Based 56k HCF V. 90 modems use "AT&FE0V1S0=0&C1&D2W0"
        2) Rockwell Based 56k HCF 56kflex modems use "+MS=k56flex"
        3) Rockwell Based 56k V.90 modems use "AT&F&W&W1E0X4W2"

        For Cirrus Logic modems you have three options, type:
        1) Cirrus Logic, 14.4 modems use "AT&F&C1&D2\Q3%C0"
        2) Cirrus Logic, 33.6 modems use "AT&F\N0%C0"
        3) Cirrus Logic, 56k X2 modems use "S32=32&N16&U10"

      1. Click OK, then click OK again.
      2. Click on the Windows Start button and select Shutdown.
      3. Restart your computer.
      4. Retry your US Message connection.
      Windows ME users:

      Runtime error 650 is a common connection error that occurs when your computer cannot establish a connection. Follow the steps below to resolve the issue.


      A. Is your access number valid ?

      To find available access numbers in your area, click here.

      B. Configure the Windows Network Components for Dial-Up-Networking

      The following instructions are for those systems that are not on a Local Area Network (LAN). If you are on a LAN and follow these directions, you may create a conflict that will disrupt your computer's connection to your network. Please contact your network administrator for assistance before you continue making any changes to the system configuration.

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.

      1. Double-click the Network icon.

        Note: If you do not see Network listed then click view all Control Panel options located on the left side of the window.

      1. Check to see if you have the following components:
         
        • Client for Microsoft Networks
        • Dial-Up Adapter
        • TCP/IP


      To Add Client for Microsoft Networks:

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Client.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Clients, select Client for Microsoft Networks.
      3. Click OK.


      To Add TCP/IP:

      If TCP/IP is not listed under Network Components then please follow these instructions to add it. If it is listed then please skip down to Add Dial-up Adapter.

      1. Click on the Add button.

      1. Select Protocol.
      2. Click on the Add button.

      1. Under Manufacturers, select Microsoft.
      2. Under Network Protocols, select TCP/IP.
      3. Click OK, then click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      4. Click Yes to restart your computer.


      To Add Dial-up Adapter:

      In order to add the Dial-Up Adaptor component, you will need to uninstall and reinstall Dial-Up Networking by following the instructions below.


      Uninstalling Dial-Up Networking

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

      1. Select the Windows Setup tab.
      2. Click once on Communications to highlight it.
      3. Click on the Details button.

      1. Click in the box next to Dial-Up Networking to remove the check mark.

      1. Click OK

      1. Click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      2. Click Yes to restart your computer.


      Reinstalling Dial-Up Networking

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

      1. Select the Windows Setup tab.
      2. Click once on Communications to highlight it.
      3. Click on the Details button.

      1. Check the box next to Dial-Up Networking.

      1. Click OK

      1. Click OK again. The following window will appear:



         
      2. Click Yes to restart your computer.

      Once you have confirmed that the three required Network components are installed, ensure that TCP/IP is correctly configured.


      C. Check Network Settings

      1. Click on the Windows Start button,
      2. Point to Settings and select Control Panel.

      1. Double-click the Network icon.

        Note: If you do not see Network listed then click view all Control Panel options located on the left side of the window.

        IMPORTANT! Before making any changes to your Network settings, please ensure that you have your Windows CD.

        Note: In the Primary Network Logon drop-down menu, ensure that Client for Microsoft Networks is selected.

         

      1. Double-click TCP/IP->Dial-Up Adapter.

        Note: If you get a TCP/IP Properties Information window, click OK.

      1. Ensure that only Client for Microsoft Networks is checked.
      2. Select the Advanced tab.

      1. Click once on Allow Binding to ATM to highlight it.
      2. From the Value drop-down list, select No.
      3. Select the DNS Configuration tab.

      1. Ensure that Disable DNS is selected.
      2. Click OK.
      3. Click OK to exit.


      D. Next, you will need to set up this computer's identity.

       

      1. Click on the Windows Start button, point to Settings and select Control Panel.
      2. Double-click the Network icon.
      3. Select the Identification tab at the top of the Network properties window. We will want to change the entry here for Computer Name. The second and thrid text box can be filled at your discretion.

        For example:
        • Computer Name:  Joi Internet
        • Workgroup:  Workgroup
        • Computer Description:  Mine
      1. Click OK.

      You may now be prompted for the Windows CD-rom, or the file copy may begin automatically. If prompted for the Windows CD, insert the CD and click OK. If you are still prompted for it after clicking OK, verify that the drive letter listed in Copy files from is your CD-rom drive.

        Note: If you made any changes or added any components, the following window will appear.



        Click Yes to restart your computer.

      When Windows restarts, you may see a dialog box asking for a Username and Password to log in. 

      For Username, enter the same name that you entered for Computer Name in the prior step in the same lower case format. Do not enter a Password. Click OK. If asked to confirm, click OK.


      Try your Internet connection again.