AOL has changed a lot over the years, and is now more focused on content than internet services. A free AOL account gives you access to web-based email and a variety of online news and entertainment content. You can also use the AOL Instant Messenger service. If you want to connect to the internet via dial-up, you can still do that too.
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Method 1 of 2: Create an AOL Email Account for Free
Step 1. Click the "Sign Up" link located at the top of the AOL homepage
You can find the link in the upper-right corner of the AOL home page, above the Weather icon. An AOL account gives you free web mail and also allows you to use the AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) service.
Step 2. Enter your name
You will be asked to enter your first and last name. Your name will appear as Sender when you email someone.
Step 3. Create a username
This is the name you use to sign in to AOL, and will appear if you use AIM. Your username will be your email address. AOL provides five suggested usernames based on your first and last name, or you can enter a username of your own choice.
Your username must be unique or you will not be able to use it. See this guide for instructions on how to create an original username
Step 4. Create a password
Passwords protect your account, so you should create a strong password. A good password contains some numbers and symbols, and does not contain words from a dictionary. AOL will display the strength of your password using a gauge to the right of the password field. You must enter the password twice to confirm the password.
See this guide for instructions on how to create a strong, easy-to-remember password
Step 5. Enter your date of birth
Use the drop-down menu to select the month, then enter the day (dd) and year (yyyy). You must be at least 13 years old to create an account.
Step 6. Choose your gender
AOL requires your gender before you can create an account. This is used to customize the news feed that appears on your AOL home page.
Step 7. Enter your zip code
While AOL doesn't need your entire address, they do need your zip code to determine your general location. It is used to provide weather and local news on your AOL home page.
Step 8. Select a security question
Click the drop-down menu to select a security question from the available options. Type the answer to the question you selected in the field below the drop-down menu.
Your security question will be used if you request a password reset or sign in from an unknown location
Step 9. Enter your mobile number
You can use your phone to help verify your identity when you can't log in. Entering the mobile number is optional.
Step 10. Enter an alternate email address
You can set a second email account as an alternative address. If you need to reset your password, instructions will be sent to this address.
- You can use the email address provided by your internet service provider, or you can create a free email account using another service such as Google or Yahoo.
- Entering an alternative email is optional.
Step 11. Click the "Sign Up" button
Your account will be created, and you will be signed in to AOL. If you set an alternative email address, you may need to open the message sent to it to verify the address.
Step 12. Have a chat using AIM
One of the main benefits of having an AOL account is using the AIM messaging service. You can chat with AIM via the AOL Mail web interface, or download AIM as a separate program from AIM.com.
See this guide for instructions on how to use AIM
Method 2 of 2: Signing up for AOL Dial-Up Internet
Step 1. Make sure you have a modem
Most modern computers are no longer equipped with dial-up modems. In order to connect to AOL, you must have a dial-up modem connected to your telephone line. See this guide for details on how to set up a dial-up connection.
Step 2. Choose the package
AOL offers three different plans for their dial-up internet service. The only difference in this package is the additional software included in the package. You get the same speed and access number at the lowest cost option.
You can also register through the AOL website (get.aol.com) or you can call the AOL 1-800 number
Step 3. Sign up
You need a valid AOL account and credit card to sign up for AOL's dial-up service. Choose the package you want and sign up. Your credit card will be charged a monthly fee for the package you choose.
Step 4. Download the AOL software
After signing up for a package, you will be given a download link (if you ordered online) or the software will be sent to you on CD. This software allows you to select your local access number and connect to the AOL network.
Step 5. Connect to AOL
Select an access number and connect to the AOL network. Once connected, you can start browsing the internet using the AOL Desktop software. When you are already connected, do not pick up the phone because your connection may be lost.
