Broadband not connecting

[Spinney]

Last week, computer would not connect - Error 721 (remote computer not responding).
Reloaded modem software, it then worked.

Today, same thing. Reloaded modem software, still got same error message (so it's not a wrong password or anything).
Plugged modem into laptop instead - worked.
Plugged modem back into desktop - not working.

Both running Windows XP. The only difference I can see is that the tiscali software on the laptop was loaded from a friend's disc (who has a different modem, but it still seems to work). But unless the CD with the software on has got corrupted (but it can't, can it?) I don't see why it isn't connecting on the desktop.

I suppose the next step is to reinstall the operating system on the desktop and see if that helps, but I thought I'd ask to see if anyone had any inspiration first, as that is likely to take me several hours by the time I've put back all the software etc that I use!

 

[ian turner]

Modem ?
Wassat ?
You have one of those old fashioned gadgets that plug into a usb port ?

 

[Spinney]

Modem ?
Wassat ?
You have one of those old fashioned gadgets that plug into a usb port ?

Yup.
Tiscali want to send me a new router, but
a) I'd need a wireless card for my laptop, and possibly my desktop as well but want me to either pay for it or commit to a 12 month contract with them. My view is they should provide what is needed to make the connection work...

 

[Bman]

Thats not true. Your water supplier doesnt have to fit your bath/shower and your electric company doesnt have to buy your TV

Virgin offer a free wireless router to new customers, if Tiscali value you as a customer they will offer you a free one just to keep you. Virgin sent me two when I, as an existing customer complained (and i dont even use them).

If that fails, just get yourself a ADSL router. Preferably netgear (as I find them easiest to support remotely ). They are not expensive.

 

[ian turner]

1. Buy your own and connect via ethernet cables
2. No they don't have to provide you with free modems/routers. Never got one when I was on 33.6k
3. Right click My Computer and select manage and look in event viewer subsection system for any red flagged items and report back

 

[Spinney]

I expressed myself poorly.

I know they are not required to provide me with the thing. But as Bongman said, if they valued my custom...

But as they decline to, I will take my custom elsewhere. Sounds like a recommendation for Virgin above...

 

[marinyork]

What Bongman said, except when I as a customer asked virgin three times for a new cable modem, and explained to their moronic call centre staff very slowly and patiently why I needed a new one, they didn't. Still haven't to this day.

 

[ian turner]

Stick your post code into the Samknows checker and see who does LLU at your local exchange. If BE/O2 do then go with them.

 

[Spinney]

Stick your post code into the Samknows checker and see who does LLU at your local exchange. If BE/O2 do then go with them.

They don't.
Never come across this before - I assume this means that the operators that are listed (including tiscali - ) can have direct connections for broadband, and everyone else needs to use the BT landline connection?

 

[ian turner]

LLU means they have their own equipment installed in the local exchange to handle their broadband customers allowing them to offer ADSL2+ services which may not be supported by the BT systems. They are still using the BT landline.
Who is listed under LLU for you ?