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From: ST102315 at brownvm.brown.edu (Jake)
Subject: Re: Connecting to AOL via PPP
Date: 8 Dec 1996 14:30:41
Message-ID: <58f52k$5vc at cocoa.brown.edu>
OK, OK, here it is...

THE 7 DIFFERENT TYPES OF TECH SUPPORT BOBS

(Example question: How can I connect to AOL using my PPP account?)
(Note: An experienced bob will take on whichever persona is most convenient at the time. I've played most of these roles.)
  1. The Saintly, Helpful Techie Who Will Burn Out Within a Month, Max
    "Yes, that is possible, but it's not something we would normally recommend. Why were you thinking of doing that?" [. . .] "Actually, I think you'd be better off [. . .] for these reasons [. . .]" OR "Fair enough. Here's what you do: [. . .]"

  2. The Delegating Weasel
    "You better call AOL. We don't know anything about it."

    OR

    "You know, there's going to be someone coming in in a few hours who really knows a lot about AOL. Why don't you call back then?"

  3. The Bob Who Gives You What You Ask For, Whether You Want It Or Not
    "OK, you'll need to configure the AOL client like so: [. . .] Now connect via PPP, then [. . .]. Yes, it is kind of slow, isn't it?" [Note: Speed of talking may vary from bob to bob from infuriatingly slow to incomprehensibly fast.]

  4. The Machiavellian
    "Start up the AOL client right now, and click on 'Connect'." [sounds of modem] "Oh well, lost him. *click* Now back to atsr."

  5. The Bald-Faced Liar
    "Sorry, that's impossible. No, I don't care what your friends say they've done. The protocals are simply incompatable."

  6. The Intimidator
    "Are you really sure you want to do that? Wow, this'll be a lot of fun...you're pretty familiar with your system, right? Have you got a couple of hours free? This will take some time."

    OR

    "Hmmm...this is really too complicated to do over the phone, but I'd be happy to come over after work and fix it all up for you for a low low $50/hour!"

  7. The BOFH
    "Yes, it certainly is possible. Just be aware that, since you're going in through NameOfISP instead of directly through the modem that it will be slightly slower. Now, open up the AOL client and click on the Configure button. Where it currently says 28,800, change it to 9600. Close it up. You should be all set now. You're welcome." 
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