I have recently installed Linux 9.3 and am having an issue getting on to the internet. Saturday I installed a new external modem to solve the hardware compatability issue. It has been configured and my ISP, MSN Internet Access, has been added as the provider.

I activate the modem by right-clicking on the "plug" and chose dial-up. I can hear the modem dialing but it never makes it to a complete connection. I have run a "cat messages" and it appears that the authentication never is completed.

I've talked with MSN to confirm that I'm using the correct dial-up number as well as the right user name (case, etc) . The password is correct too.

I'm now thinking that there must be some further hardware/bios/ etc. configuration that needs to occur. Is there perhaps a Baud rate adjustment that is needed (please don't think I know what I'm talking about here:-).

Help I'm so frustrated. It just shouldn't be this hard to get online. Thanks so much for any and all help.

Ewww...What did the people at M$N say when you told them you are using Linux? I'm using Verizon's DSL which also uses MSN. They were as helpful as a bottle of battery acid to quench a thirst.

Then again, the paranoid side of me wonders if they don't intentionally make it harder for Linux users in hopes of making you switch back to M$ B$. Have you checked your Suse hardware tool and made sure anything concerning connections to the internet has been configured?

Other than that, I've got nothing as far as being helpful. I'm on here looking for help myself. Good luck.

Yes, I talked to MSN and they were VERY emphatic that they will not give any support to LINUX users.

I'm just stumped because really the internet connection interface in LINUX is pretty straightforward. There are only so many ways to configure lol. The modem is dialing out but it never completes the connection when MSN answers which I believe is an authentication problem but without support from MSN I'm pretty well screwed in the troubleshooting area.

I hate to have to go to Windows but the net is a huge part of our use...kids, homework, email etc.

I would agree with Tinkster on this one. I think this is Suse specific, and would try to contact then regarding your setup. I have used various external modems with various distro's and never had a problem. Swannsmart II modem..... something like that. A while ago now. That would be my first port of call.

Cheers

I'm not sure if you know this..but when putting in your username, it has to be in MSN/username format.