Solving the Dialup Disconnect Problem
There are some things you can do to reduce the disconnects you experience using a dial up.
1. CHECK YOUR IDLE TIME
If you are connected but no activity is taking place for a period of time, "idle time out" will automatically disconnect you.
For example, you have a project going and stop to eat dinner, or put the kids to bed. While doing so, you leave the internet connected. Since you aren't actually using the internet, this is considered "idle time" and you are disconnected. Most ISP providers use "idle time out" policy to keep lines free for others who want to get online.
If you experience these "idle times" more often than normal, check your "Idle Time" Configuration by going to Internet Option - Connection - Settings - Settings - Properties - Configuration - Connection - and uncheck the "idle time box".
2. UNSTABLE CONNECTION
If you find disconnects happening while you are actually using the Internet or Email, the problem is most likely an unstable connection which is caused when your modem connects at a rate that the phone line can't handle. The modem is trying to send and receive data, but the phone line is struggling to hold the connection.
To solve this problem, you'll need an Initialization String to help control your modem's connection speed. Locate this string in the Owner's Manual of your modem, or by contacting the place of purchase or manufacturer.
Once you have that string go to Control Panel - Modem - Properties - Connection - Advanced - Enter the string in the "extra settings" field box. Always enter all the same case - either all caps or all small case. Never mix.
3. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
You can contact your local phone company and request they do a test for noise and interference on your phone line.
Also Google "modem" and find more resources than you can handle :)