Can't Connect to the Internet Service Provider

Solutions:
Make sure your modem is switched on and connected to a live phone line. If necessary, refer to your modem's user manual.
Make sure your connection software is configured properly. If necessary, refer to the original setup instructions, or call your provider's customer service number.
You might be having trouble with your phone line. Before attempting a connection, make sure that all phones on the line are hung up, and check for a dial tone. If you encounter a problem with your line that you cannot resolve on your own, contact your phone company by dialing 611, a service available in most areas in the U.S. (on someone else's phone, of course).
You may experience problems if your modem is "connected" to your phone line by way of a radio-based phone extension. While adequate for voice communications, these extenders usually do not provide a connection that is clean enough (noise-free) for digital transmissions.
The problem might not be on your end, but might lie with the service provider. Often, if too many users are logged on to a provider's system, the provider will not permit additional connections. Also, the provider might be performing system maintenance (though most providers try to do such work during "off" hours to minimize disruption). If you believe this to be the case, try connecting again until you establish a connection, or try another "point of presence" phone number for your provider.