On September 30, 2025, AOL officially discontinued its dial-up internet service, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in internet history. This decision signifies the end of an era that introduced millions to the World Wide Web during the 1990s and early 2000s.
The Rise of AOL’s Dial-Up Service
Founded in 1985 as Quantum Computer Services, AOL (America Online) became synonymous with internet access in the United States. Its dial-up service, launched in 1991, provided users with a gateway to the internet through telephone lines. The distinctive sounds of modems connecting and the iconic You’ve Got Mail notification became emblematic of the early internet experience. AOL’s widespread distribution of free trial CDs further cemented its presence in households nationwide.
The Decline of Dial-Up
As technology advanced, broadband and wireless internet services emerged, offering faster and more reliable connections. This shift led to a steady decline in dial-up usage. By 2023, only about 0.13% of U.S. households, approximately 163,000 homes, still relied on dial-up connections. These users were often located in rural or underserved areas where broadband infrastructure was limited.
AOL’s Announcement and Transition
In August 2025, AOL announced its decision to discontinue dial-up internet services. The company stated, AOL routinely evaluates its products and services and has decided to discontinue Dial-up Internet. This change also included the retirement of associated software, such as the AOL Dialer and AOL Shield browser, both optimized for older operating systems and dial-up connections. AOL assured users that other benefits in their plans, including email services, would remain unaffected.
Impact on Remaining Users
The discontinuation of dial-up services posed challenges for the remaining users, particularly those in remote areas with limited access to high-speed internet. While some alternative providers still offer dial-up services, the options are dwindling. This situation underscores the ongoing digital divide in the United States, where a significant percentage of rural and tribal area residents lack access to high-speed internet compared to urban areas.
AOL’s Legacy and the Future of Internet Access
AOL’s decision to end its dial-up service reflects the broader evolution of internet technology and the company’s own transformation. Once valued at $164 billion in 2000, AOL experienced a series of downturns and ownership changes, including its acquisition by Verizon and later by Yahoo. Despite these changes, AOL continues to offer email and tech support services.
The end of AOL’s dial-up service symbolizes the continued disappearance of early internet technologies. It serves as a reminder of the rapid advancements in digital connectivity and the importance of ensuring that all communities have access to modern internet services.
