If you grew up in the ’90s or early 2000s, the sound of AOL’s dial-up connection is probably etched into your memory. That nostalgic screech, however, will soon be nothing more than a piece of internet history.
AOL has announced it will officially discontinue its dial-up internet service on September 30, bringing a 34-year chapter to a close. The news first appeared on the company’s AOL Help pages and was spotted by PC Gamer. Along with dial-up, the AOL Dialer software and the AOL Shield browser will also be retired by the end of September.
Table of Contents
Why AOL Dial-Up Lasted This Long
You might be surprised AOL still offered dial-up in 2025, but the service maintained a small, loyal user base—mainly in rural areas where broadband internet options like fiber or satellite internet weren’t easily accessible or affordable.
While today’s numbers are in the “low thousands,” AOL once dominated the online world with tens of millions of subscribers, thanks in part to its iconic free trial CDs delivered to mailboxes across America.
End of an Era for 90s Internet Culture
Although AOL’s dial-up couldn’t compete with modern high-speed internet, it managed to outlive many other tech icons from the same era—think Blockbuster, portable CD players, and even AOL Instant Messenger.
From now on, that famous America Online connection tone will only live on in nostalgic YouTube recreations and social media throwbacks.
Key Takeaway: After September 30, AOL’s dial-up service will be gone for good, marking the final sunset for one of the internet’s earliest gateways.
Frequently Asked Questions About AOL’s Dial-Up Shutdown
1. Why is AOL ending its dial-up service?
AOL is shutting down its dial-up internet because user numbers have dropped to the “low thousands,” and faster, more reliable broadband options such as fiber and satellite internet are now widely available. Maintaining the old infrastructure simply isn’t practical.
2. When will AOL dial-up officially shut down?
The service will be discontinued on September 30, 2025, along with AOL Dialer software and the AOL Shield browser.
3. How many people still use AOL dial-up?
While exact numbers aren’t public, AOL says it still has a few thousand active dial-up subscribers, mainly in rural areas where broadband isn’t accessible or affordable.
4. What are the alternatives to AOL dial-up?
Users can switch to options like DSL, cable, fiber internet, or satellite providers depending on location. Some mobile hotspots also provide reliable connectivity in rural areas.
5. Will AOL email accounts be affected?
No — AOL email services will continue to function even after dial-up shuts down. Users can log in via AOL Mail or through third-party email apps.
6. Can I still hear the AOL dial-up sound?
Yes — while you won’t be able to connect with it, you can still find the nostalgic connection tone on YouTube and other social media platforms.
