Getting Started (Dial-up)

Dial-up Quick Configuration Info NCF currently operates one pool of modems: Phone Number   Max Users   Type 613-366-0013   23   PPP or text Please note that long distance charges may apply outside your local calling area.

To set up your computer for dial-up connection to NCF and the internet, please follow the step by step instructions below for the type of system you use:

• Windows Vista
• Windows XP
• Windows 95, 98 and ME
• Windows 2000
• Mac OS 9
• Mac OS X
• Mandrake Linux
• For setting up older computers using the text system, see FreePort.

Note: For NCF members who want to use Linux for dial-up, particularly on old computer hardware, Puppy Linux supports dial-up very well right "out-of-the-box".

What phone number do I use to dial into NCF?

Consult the yellow 'Quick Configuration Info' box at the top-right of this page.

What equipment do I need?

You need a computer with a modem, and a telephone line. Your computer must have a jack for the phone line and a telephone modem. This was common on computers in the early 2000s, but later, as dial-up was displaced by higher speed broadband (eg., DSL), it has become less common and into the 2010s has become rare for a new computer to come with a dial-up modem as standard equipment. Be sure to enquire when you buy a new computer if you need dial-up access. An internally-mounted dial-up modem is usually inexpensive (perhaps $20). There are also external modems available that plugf into a USB port and your computer. These are more expensive, but very easy to install.

To browse the internet, you will need a web browser such as Chrome, FireFox or Internet Explorer. These days all operating systems come with browsers installed, but alternate browsers are available for free, such as:

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox

How much connection time can I get?

NCF operates over 300 modem lines, shared by members. Connection time is unlimited from midnight to noon, and unlimited from noon to midnight unless all modems become busy. If all modems become busy, total connection time for each user from noon to midnight may be limited to at least two hours per day.

During non-peak time, from midnight to noon, you may connect for as long as you like. In busy times, these connections may be limited to one hour at a time. You can also connect for five minutes at a time to get/send your email anytime.

Does NCF offer high-speed access to the Internet?

Yes, NCF offers high-speed DSL internet access. DSL technology ('Digital Subscriber Line') gives you high-speed internet access over your existing telephone line, always available, without blocking your telephone. It is up to 50 times faster than a regular dialup connection.

For more details, please see our DSL page where you can also sign up.