Tether: Dial-up Internet Access at MIT

On this page:
Overview
Eligibility
Prerequisites
Register
Connecting Via Dialup to Tether
Getting Help

Overview

Tether is MIT's remote-access dialup service providing PPP connectivity to MITnet and the internet. It supports Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) over analog lines at maximum speeds that can range from 28.8 to 56kbps depending on modem model and other conditions. Supported modem protocols include V.34, K56Flex and V.90. (ISDN access is not supported.). Tether only has a phone number in Cambridge and gives you an IP address directly on MITnet. If you are traveling, please see information about iPass for MIT's recommended solution for network access while traveling.

If you are interested in high-speed internet access from home, see the High Speed Remote Access page.

Eligibility

Tether is intended for MIT faculty, students, and staff only. Access to this system is through Kerberos authentication. Remember, sharing your Kerberos password with anyone is a violation of the MITnet Rules of Use.

If you live outside the local MIT dialing area, you have alternatives. You can still get PPP connectivity to MITnet and the Internet by signing up with a commercial Internet provider. See The List of Internet Service Providers.

Tether is an extension of the MIT computing environment. Use of this service is for Institute purposes only and is subject to the MITnet Rules of Use.

Prerequisites

Before you can use Tether you will need:

An analog phone line (Tether does not support ISDN)
A computer
A modem
Note: Recent models of computer hardware may not include an internal modem. Check your computer's specifications, and if a modem is not included you will need to obtain an external modem compatible with Tether. Supported Tether protocols include V.34, K56Flex and V.90 (ISDN access is not supported).
A Kerberos username and password. If you already have an Athena account you are ready to use Tether. If not, contact Athena User Accounts.

Note: Tether is supported on MIT recommended computers and operating systems.

Register

Connecting Via Dialup to Tether

Getting Help

For additional help, see Tether Stock Answers or contact the IS&T Service Desk.

IS&T Service Desk

Monday-Friday
Telephone/Online: 8am - 6pm
Walk-In (N42) 9:15am - 5pm

Web: IS&T Service Desk
Email: computing-help@mit.edu
Phone: 617.253.1101