HELP! Error 633 and no Internet connection

Question

I am using a Dell Dimensions 4600 with Windows XP Home Edition. Sudenly, on July 4th, I could still connect to AOL but not to browse the Web. Days later I couldn't connect at all. Finally, two weeks later, I uninstalled AOL and all its compenent parts including its Dial-up Adapter because an MSN tech said it can create connectivity problems.   Did all the restarts, did not edit the registry, though.   But I can't establish an Internet connection.  Each time I try to connect using the dial-up connection provided by MSN (can't install its software from CD without a connection) I get 'Retrying', then 'Error 633:  the modem (or other connecting device) is already in use or is not configured properly.'  No other devices are connected.   All physical connections are correct, but in the Device Manager I notice the Network Adapter is disabled. (Red 'X in front of it.)  Windows 'modem query' shows something 'not responding' but I don't know what that is.  It also says the modem is enabled and working properly. I do have Microsoft Network Client checked in the MSN/test dialog box.  I thought I'd just use the Network Adapter which comes with Windows XP.    It seems I should uninstall and reinstall the modem driver.  But can't I just do some sort of reconfiguring? What steps should I take?  I am afraid to use info in Microsoft KB324760 although I suspect the AOL Adapter corrupted something.  I've also read other people's Forum queries on the error 633 problem and they are hair-raising!  No solutions seem to work.  HELP!    Sincerely,   MouseB  Message Edited by MouseB on 07-17-2005 05:10 PM Message Edited by MouseB on 07-17-2005 05:16 PM Message Edited by MouseB on 07-17-2005 05:18 PM

fireberd · Answer

Unfortunately uninstalling AOL or at least completely uninstalling AOL can be almost impossible. Many have reported they had to do a "clean" install (reformat the hard drive and completely reinstall everything) to get rid of it.

With your other AOL problems, I suspect that is what you will ultimately have to do.

But, check the Windows Task Manager and see if there is still an AOL program or module (if you can identify it) that is still there. If you have any instant messenger programs, disable them.

Chellisland · Answer

I am getting a windows explorer has encountered a problem and needs to close.  This is always up and will not allow me to do things with my computer - I have DSL and I was told this is why ...  Can anyone help me get this fixed

MouseB · Answer

As a first step, could I simply uninstall and reinstall the modem software? Reformatting the hard-dirve will probably get rid of the remaining AOL components, but won't they be back again in full after i use the installation CD which came with my operating system?

MouseB

MouseB · Answer

I fixed the problem and now have an MSN Internet connection. I solved it by:

Uninstalling the OS and re-formatting the harddrive, getting rid of any unwanted dialers, AOL components imbedded in the system, and spyware.
Couldn't connect. Under Dial-up Properties it indicated the modem was "removed". Fixed that by reseating it and reinstalling the driver. (The modem, however, was not the original problem. The modem problem happened after it was removed and checked to make sure it was operating at the time of the original error message. I never did have a hardware issue. It was all the AOL software which had first stopped being able to browse the 'net then quit altogether.)
BINGO. All problems installing MSN from the software CD went flawlessly.

Had I known ahead of time it might take this to dislodge AOL I would never have signed up with them for an Internet account.

Caveat emptor.

MouseB

Windows General

Was this post helpful?