Internet Service Provider

• Dial-up Internet access is a utility, similar to home telephone or cable TV service. Therefore, you must subscribe and set up a dial-up account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The sign-up process usually involves your first and last name, as well as other identifying information. After service is activated, the ISP issues a username and password that you then use to dial up to the Internet via the company's computer servers.
  
  

Default Log-in Formats

• ISPs customarily assign you with default usernames and passwords that help you dial up to the Internet for the first time. The format of these names and passphrases commonly includes the initials from your first and last name, e.g., "JD" for "John Doe." The username or the password might resemble the following extended example of the default format: "JD12345."
  
  

Dial-Up Software

• Users have to manually type in the default username and password in the the dial-up connection software on the PC. Many ISPs develop proprietary software that their customers can use to create a dial-up connection to the Internet. The instructions that accompany the connection software might state to enter your username or password, including your "initials," in the text field. The software program usually stores that information so you don't have to continue to re-enter your log-ins every time you connect to the Internet.
  
  

Security Concerns

• You should consider changing the default username and password to a stronger, longer, more secure format. If another person can decipher your log-in credentials, by the very fact that he knows your first and last name, then he can possibly deduce your dial-up account log-in information as well. Many dial-up services have limitations of a few hours of usage per month. If another person has hacked your account, he can send your dial-up service over the limit. Contact your ISP and ask for help in changing your default username and password so your initials are not included.