AOL

[RCB]

Hello,

Am currently using AOL as our ISP dialup internet until can organize some form of broadband in our 'remote' location.  Our computers run Avast 4.7.   My impression is that Avast is inactive in AOL's web browser and AOL Mail (no Avast scanning messages ever pop up etc, unlike when using IE).   Is my impression correct??        As AOL software basically takes over online activity, it's difficult to not use their browser and mail with them as ISP.   Thanks.

[DavidR]

1. the AOhell browser is a somewhat proprietary tool (like many other AOhell products) and such unsupported I believe.

There is nothing to stop you from using a different browser Firefox, Opera or IE after you have established your AOhell connection, all of which are supported.

2. I believe the same is true of the AOhell email client for the same reasons as above.
I think you should be able to use something like Thunderbird, I don't really have any experience of avoiding AOhell products as I have always avoided AOL.

3. "As AOL software basically takes over online activity, it's difficult to not use their browser and mail with them as ISP. "

Which is where my AOhell jibe comes from they try to isolate users from the full functionality of the web.

[RCB]

David R

Thanks for your reply to my Q, and suggestions.       Richard

[DavidR]

You're welcome.

Have you managed to circumvent some of the proprietary applications of AOhell yet ?

[RCB]

Sorry,  slow reply, as haven't been online much lately.
 No success trying to dial into aol account using non AOL software recently, but I'll ask AOL help dudes how to do this. They're usually v.helpful, despite what we may think of AOL otherwise!

RCB

[DavidR]

You don't dial in to AOHell with non-AOHell software, connect as you would normally and then switch to the other software that you want to use, be that browser/email, etc.