Internet FAQs


General Internet
What is the acceptable use policy (AUP) for NuLink residential Internet service?

Click here to view the AUP or click here to download in DOC format.

Can NuLink Internet service my business or home office?

NuLink Business may be the perfect solution for your business Internet needs. Contact us to find out more.

Does NuLink use a third party company for targeted advertising?

No, NuLink does not use a third party company for advertising at this time.

What are cookies?

Cookies are small files stored on a computer’s hard drive to simplify and improve a user’s Web experience. When a website needs to store settings or information, it creates a cookie file on your computer. Only the server that created the cookie can read the contents. The file never contains personal information that wasn't already submitted to a particular site.

A weather web site might remember the location you selected using a cookie file. Or, another site might save a cookie with a unique number (session ID) to indicate your preference to log-in automatically when you return.

An ad server might store a unique number in a cookie file so it can recognize you and cycle through different advertisements, without showing the same one over and over. Many security products report these as "security risks" and delete them. There is no harm in deleting them, but there is no real risk from ad cookies.

Any web browser (Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, etc) should have an option for clearing cookies; however, be aware that your preferences on many web sites will be reset if you do.

Newsgroups
Does NuLink Internet provide access to newsgroups?

NuLink does not provide newsgroup servers, but you can still use any premium newsgroup service if you wish.

A couple of popular premium newsgroup services are NewsHosting and Giganews.

Product Questions
What is the acceptable use policy (AUP) for NuLink residential Internet service?

Click here to view the AUP or click here to download in DOC format.

How do I find my IP Address?

Just like a telephone number, your Internet IP address is a unique number that is assigned to your computer or router. The major difference is that this number can change occasionally (though a static IP address can be reserved for an additional charge). The easiest way to determine your current IP address is to visit a web site that reports it back to you. Here are a couple that will report your outside IP address:

 

If you have a device between your computer and the cable modem (like a router to share the connection), that device usually has the IP address assigned to it. Computers and devices behind it would share a single Internet IP address. The router or network device assigns local IPs to each computer or device behind it.

The following steps will display the IP address of your computer. If you are behind a device that shares the Internet connection, your computer will only report your local IP address.

Windows XP:

  1. Click START and then select RUN.
  2. In the Run dialog box, type CMD and click OK.
  3. The black Command window will open. Type IPCONFIG and press the Enter or Return key.
  4. Lots of information will be displayed. Look for "IP Address" or "IPv4 IP Address."

Windows Vista/7:

  1. Click START.
  2. At the bottom of the Start menu, type CMD and press the Enter key.
  3. The black Command window will open. Type IPCONFIG and press the Enter or Return key.
  4. Lots of information will be displayed. Scroll back up and look for "IPv4 IP Address."

Mac OSX

  1. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner, then select System Preferences.
  2. Click "Network."
  3. Select the appropriate network adapter (AirPort for wireless or Ethernet for wired).
  4. The IP address for the selected network adapter should be displayed.

 

How do I change my home page in Internet Explorer?
  1. Go to the Web page you want to set as your homepage.
  2. Click Tools then choose Internet Options. Some versions of Internet Explorer do not show a menu bar. If you don't see "Tools," tap the Alt key to reveal the menu bar.
  3. Click Use Current.
What is NuLink High-Speed Internet?

NuLink High-Speed Internet is an always-on "broadband" Internet connection provided over cable lines. With home networking equipment, a single cable modem can provide Internet access for an entire household. With different speed packages to choose from, you can find the right NuLink Internet service to fit your needs.

If you are configuring a router to share your Internet connection and you're asked what type of connection to select, choose "Automatic," "Dynamic," or "DHCP."

What software will be useful for surfing the Internet?

Users running any version of Microsoft Windows are encouraged to use a web browser other than Internet Explorer. IE is included with every computer running Windows, so it's frequently targeted by bloatware and malware. Using a different web browser helps to reduce this threat significantly. Users still need to be careful that downloaded software is trustworthy.

Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is similar to IE in many ways, but offers much greater functionality with the extensions and plug-ins available (example: Adblock Plus).

Google Chrome

Chrome is an extremely fast and stable web browser with a simple interface. Like Firefox, it also has useful plug-ins to extend functionality. As a relative newcomer, Chrome is rapidly growing in popularity.

Opera

Opera is a very popular web browser that has been in development since 1994. Many now-standard web browsing features were originally introduced in Opera. It is still frequently updated and offers far more built-in functionality than any other web browser. Many standard features in Opera aren't available in other browsers without installing extensions and add-ons.

These web browsers are also available for Apple Mac computers running OSX (alternative to Safari).

 

Other software for Windows

 

Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft recently started offering MSE as a free antivirus product. It is less-intrusive than most paid antivirus software and has a minimal impact on system performance. If you are going to install MSE, it's recommended that you first remove your old antivirus software so they do not conflict with each other.

Microsoft Windows Live Essentials

Windows Live Essentials is a free package from Microsoft. For Windows 7 users, it adds some features that were standard with Windows XP (email client, instant messaging). Windows Live Essentials also includes other useful software, like Windows Live Photo Gallery. When installing, it is recommended that you opt-out of any unnecessary toolbars or extra software you don't want.

Mozilla Thunderbird

Thunderbird is an email client similar to Outlook and Windows Mail. Compared to Windows Live Mail, Thunderbird is faster and lighter.

Can I keep using my Web-based e-mail service?

If you already have an email address from a free email provider, you can continue to use it.

How is NuLink Internet different from my dial-up connection?

NuLink connects using a cable modem over your cable line, so you won't tie-up the phone when using the Internet. Because the connection is "always-on," you don't need to manually connect and disconnect. Just turn on your computer and open your web browser, email client, or any other software that requres an active Internet connection.

NuLink Internet offers different speed packages to choose from so you can find the service level that best fits your needs. Our standard package allows speeds up to 3,000mbps, which is almost 60 times faster than the fastest dial-up connection (53.3kbps).

Today's Internet is no longer "dial-up friendly." Broadband speeds allow you to stream Internet video and access services that are not possible through a low-speed dial-up connection. Clicking from page-to-page is also significantly faster. Try a high-speed Internet connection and see what you've been missing!

How is NuLink Internet different from DSL or other cable providers?

NuLink Internet does not use your home phone lines, so it's not necessary to install DSL filters on your telephone outlets. In many areas, DSL models are not capable of the same speeds as a cable modem.

While it's sometimes misrepresented as a disadvantage, cable networks have smaller, more manageable segments than DSL. Cable segments typically service a neighborhood or subdivision while DSL segments include a much larger region, with everyone sharing the same bandwidth.

Do I have to have NuLink Cable to get NuLink Internet?

You do not have to have NuLink Cable to get NuLink Internet, but with such great package deals, why wouldn't you get both services from NuLink? Learn more about our pricing and packaging options!

Cable Modem
What do I do if my cable modem isn’t working?

First check that your coaxial cable, power, and network connections are still tight.

-Turn off your computer.
-Identify the cable modem (small box with lights, should have a cable wire that screws into the back).
-Unplug the power cord from the back of the modem (the thinnest, black cord).
-Verify that the lights on the front have faded out.
-Plug the power cord back into the modem.
-Turn the computer on.
-Allow 1-3 minutes for the modem to find the right channel.

Most customers also have another device that the connection passes through before reaching the computer. If you have a router, Internet phone device, or other network equipment...you could also try unplugging / reconnecting the power on those devices.

If your NuLink Internet connection is still not functioning properly, call 770-683-MYTV (6988) to find out if there is an outage in your area. If there is not an outage in your area, and you have tried steps 1–2 above, please stay on the phone for technical support from a NuLink Customer Care Representative.

Can I use my own cable modem?

Yes, you can use your own cable modem for NuLink Internet service. However, some older modems may have compatibility issues or performance problems.

For most cases, we recommend that you lease the modem from NuLink for a small monthly fee. Modems are often damaged during electrical storms, and a NuLink modem can be replaced if this happens.

A cable modem usually costs $60-$80 from most retailers. If you decide to purchase your own modem, make sure it is DOCSIS 2.0 compliant or newer. The NuLink network is transitioning to DOCSIS 2.0 and support for older modems will eventually be phased out.

If you need wireless, it is recommended to have separate devices for the cable modem and wireless router. Some more-expensive cable modems have a built-in wireless access point. These are sometimes called wireless "gateway." Such combination devices are typically problematic and expensive.

Home Networking / Wireless
I want to set-up wireless equipment. What do I need to buy?

To start, you will need a wireless router. This works as a base-station, taking the wired connection from our cable modem and sharing it. Nearly all wireless routers have 4 additional wired sockets, so wired computers in the same room can connect without extra hardware. A desktop computer in another room may need a wireless adapter.

Popular brands include:
Belkin
D-Link
Linksys
Netgear
Dynex (usually re-branded from Belkin products)
Ativa (usually re-branded from Belkin products)

Wireless equipment is now cheaper than ever. A $30-$40 wireless router will usually work just fine. Wireless adapters are also typically $30-$40. If your client devices already have built-in wireless capability, then you do not need a wireless adapter; A wireless router (the base-station) is all you need.

Depending on your situation, wireless setup can be quick and easy, or very time-consuming. Equipment manufacturers usually provide a 24/7 support number you can call for help. Also, local computer technicians offer installation and configuration services.

I'm trying to configure a router for the first time and I'm being asked what type of Internet connection I have.

The option to select should say either "Automatic," "Dynamic," or "DHCP." Also, if you are asked for a "Host name" or "Domain," you do not need to enter or change anything.

My computer/device has wireless capability (WiFi). Does NuLink support wireless?

You can use your own home networking equipment to share your NuLink connection. You can use a router or "wireless router" to share the connection. NuLink does not provide assistance configuring your home network equipment.

For an increased monthly fee, NuLink offers a cable modem with built-in wireless capability. Please contact us for current pricing information.

ESPN3
How do I access ESPN3?

If you have NuLink home Internet service, it's easy to watch ESPN3 from your computer! Just go to ESPN3.com and click "Watch Now" at the top of the page. You do not need to register or sign-in as long as you are using a NuLink cable modem to access the Internet.

 

Can I access ESPN3 when I'm away from home?

Yes. You must first register a free ESPN account and activate ESPN3 access from your home Internet connection. Once that's done, you can sign-in and watch from any Internet connection.

Here's how:

- Go to ESPN3.com

- Click "Register" and create a free ESPN.com account.



- After registering, return to ESPN3.com and click "Remote Access" near the top of the page.



- Click the "Sync My Account" button.



If you don't see the "Sync My Account" button, please make sure you are accessing the Internet through your NuLink cable modem. If you are connected to an employer's "VPN tunnel," disconnect from the VPN and try again.


Complete.

 

E-mail
How do I setup my e-mail?

If you don't yet have an email account with NuLink, please contact us to have it created. Be prepared to choose a name and password for each account you wish to create.

If NuLink has already created an email account for you, here is critical information you will need to retrieve mail from it:

Webmail

Visit webmail.numail.org from any web browser and sign-in with your email name and password.

 

Email client software / device

  • Type:
    IMAP or POP3.
  • Incoming server:
    imap.gmail.com or pop.gmail.com
  • Outgoing server:
    smtp.gmail.com
  • Username or account name:
    (your entire email address.)
  • Password:
    (the password you chose when your email address was created)
  • SMTP authentication:
    Required.
    (don't confuse with "SPA," which should not be selected)
  • SSL encryption:
    Required for both incoming and outgoing.
  • Incoming port number:
    993 (IMAP) or 995 (POP)
  • Outgoing port number:
    465

 

If your mobile device supports Exchange protocol, you can follow these instructions to configure email with additional benefits over POP/IMAP.

  • Near-instant "push" notification of incoming messages.
  • Fewer settings required during initial set-up.
  • Synchronize calendars and contacts with the server.
  • All the same benefits of IMAP.

 

 

How do I access my e-mail account via the Web (Webmail)?

The Webmail page allows you to access your NuLink e-mail from any web browser. Just visit webmail.numail.org and sign-in with your password. If you don't have an email address, you will need to call NuLink first to have one created.

What are the NuLink e-mail settings?

Basic information you will need to set up your e-mail account:

  • Type: IMAP or POP (IMAP recommended)
  • Incoming server: imap.gmail.com or smtp.gmail.com
  • Outgoing server: smtp.gmail.com
  • SMTP (outgoing) authentication is required.
  • Your account name is your entire email address
  • SSL encryption is required for both incoming and outgoing.
  • Be careful that you do not select any option that mentions "SPA" or "Secure Password Authentication"

 

How many e-mail accounts are included with my NuLink Internet service?

NuLink offers 5 e-mail accounts, which can be activated as soon as your NuLink Internet service is installed.

Do I have to use the e-mail accounts provided by NuLink?

NuLink offers 5 e-mail accounts for NuLink Internet customers to use, but you can also use another e-mail provider if you choose. Please note that if you choose not to use your NuLink Internet e-mail addresses, you will not receive special offers and communication notices from NuLink.

How much e-mail storage is included in my NuLink e-mail account?

NuLink provides 7GB of storage for each NuLink e-mail account.

How can I create a strong password?

You can increase the strength of your password by increasing the number of characters to more than 8, or increasing the use of numbers, capital letters and special characters such as @!#$%^&*=_~`- . Stronger passwords use two uppercase letters or numbers and one special character.

The strongest passwords contain at least:

  • 14 characters
  • 1 uppercase letter
  • 1 number
  • 1 valid special character such as @!#$%^&*=_~`-
     
Why did my e-mail client (Outlook Express, Outlook, etc) suddenly stop working?

Most e-mail issues can be resolved by one of the following:

  1. Reboot your computer.
  2. Disable any anti-virus software. If this corrects the problem, contact your anti-virus vendor for assistance.
  3. Disable any firewall software. If this corrects the problem, contact your firewall vendor for assistance.
  4. If the problem persists, please contact Customer Support at 770-683-6988. Representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

How can I send e-mails using my NuLink e-mail account while I am away from home?

You can access your NuLink e-mail account from any Web browser with NuLink Webmail. Simply go to webmail.numail.org and sign-in with your email name and password.

I received an e-mail from NuLink asking for my NuLink username/password. Should I respond to this e-mail?

NuLink will never ask customers to provide personally identifiable information like this via e-mail. If you ever receive an e-mail that purports to come from NuLink and seems questionable, contact us directly and let us know.

For additional questions, please contact us directly.

2A Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263
770-683-6988