A frequent reason for disconnection is problems with the Windows 98 Network settings in Control Panel (Start -> Settings -> Control Panel) Here is a list all of the components that need to be installed:s

Client for Microsoft Networks
Dial Up Adapter
TCP/IP

If you have no client, click on Add -> Client -> Add -> Microsoft -> choose Client for Microsoft Networks

If you have two clients, such as Client for Netware . ..... remove all except Client for Microsoft Networks

Remove -> IPX/SPX
Remove-> NetBEUI

If TCP/IP disappears, you will need to add it again by clicking on Add -> Protocol - this is the protocol of the Internet and must be present.

A lot of newer computers come with a LAN (local area network) card installed, and if this is the case, you may have to keep this component, it may have this word in its name: Ethernet or PCI

If you have AOL adapter, or AOL TCP/IP, be sure and remove those, unless you subscribe to AOL. In this case, you may need some of their components, but you should always connect to our server first, then begin the AOL software.

Next step: If you changed any of the components, removed or added, be sure to click on the Identification tab and rename the computer.

Doesn't matter what you name it, no one will see it, just rename it, after your dog, cat, children, boat... whatever.

Then rename the workgroup to anything else. Leave the next field, computer description, blank. Close out Network and reboot the computer. That should help Windows keep the modem from disconnecting.

There is also a special command to force the modem to stay connected for up to 5 seconds, with out a carrier (a tone in the phone line)

Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Modems -> Properties -> Connection tab

Click the Advanced button

In the Extra settings dialogue box, enter .....S10=50

Windrivers.com Telephone numbers for computer manufacturers, click here