In Mac OS X, how can I connect automatically to a dial-up Internet connection?

Note: This document assumes you have already configured your computer to access PPP; see At IUB or IUPUI, in Mac OS X, how do I connect to the modem pool?

In Mac OS X, to configure your computer to automatically dial when you start an Internet application (e.g., Safari, Mail), modify your PPP settings:

Mac OS X 10.5 and later

1. From the Apple menu, select System Preferences... . Then from the the View menu, select Network.
   
   
2. In the left pane, select your modem (e.g., External Modem or Internal Modem). Click Advanced... .
   
   
3. In the sheet that drops down, click the PPP tab, then check Connect automatically when needed.
   
   
4. Click OK, and then Apply.

Mac OS X 10.4 and earlier

1. From the Apple menu, select System Preferences... . Then from the the View menu, select Network.
   
   
2. Next to "Configure:" or "Show:", select your modem (e.g., External Modem or Internal Modem).
   
   
3. Click the PPP tab, and then click PPP Options... .
   
   
4. In the dialog box that appears, check Connect automatically when needed.
   
   
5. Click OK, and then click Save or Apply Now.

Warning: If you choose to set this option, you may want to turn off utilities that automatically access the network. Otherwise, each time they activate, your computer may attempt to dial a connection.

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