Genuinely free access (IC24)

Member Name: nedrichards

Product:	IC24
Date:	03/12/00 (62 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: absolutely free!

Disadvantages: only at certain times, can take several attempts to connect

I have been using IC24 for several months and it has reduced my phone bill dramatically!!!

What they offer is a regular local-rate dial-up service, plus a freephone number you that you can use between 8pm and 12pm every day.

The great advantage of IC24 is that there are no monthly, annual or intial subscription fees making this the only totally free ISP in the UK.

Obviously, the service isn't perfect - it is very popular, which means it can take several (to many, sometimes 20, 30) attempts to dial up in the evenings, but I've never had problems at the weekend. Also, to allow everyone a chance to connect the is a 1 hour cut off period. But as it is free, I am fully prepared to endure these small inconveniences. You can get round the dialup problem mostly by setting it up so that it dials in automatically 10 times whilst you go off and do something else - within audible range!) until it logs in.

The connection speeds are fast and reliable and I've never needed their technical support. IC24 comes with all the usual ISP add-ons such as extra email adresses etc.

The free periods are for a limited time only, usually a month or so but every time they've gone up to the deadline they've extended it so far (for about a year). This is sensible for them as it reduces the innevitable criticism that they would get if they promised it for ever and then ran out of cash! As they're backed by the Mirror group they won't go bankrupt which might ease some fears, but they might stop the funding.

Try this service - you've nothing to lose. My only fear is that as it becomes more popular connecting will be more difficult.

Summary: