AOL announces September shutdown for dial-up Internet after 34 years

AOL, a pioneer in the dial-up internet era, has announced the shutdown of its dial-up service in September 2022, marking the end of an era. The decision comes after 34 years of providing dial-up internet access to millions of households across the United States. Despite the rapid growth of broadband and high-speed internet options, it is estimated that around 175,000 households in the US still rely on dial-up internet connections. While this number is significantly lower than the peak of dial-up usage, it reflects the persistence of this outdated technology, particularly in rural and remote areas where broadband infrastructure may be limited. The shutdown of AOL's dial-up service will have a significant impact on these remaining households, forcing them to either transition to alternative internet options or potentially face limited or no access to the internet altogether. This move signifies the continued evolution of the internet landscape and the gradual phasing out of older technologies as the demand for faster and more reliable connectivity continues to grow.