Local service provider Nu-Z.net, in a message to their internet subscribers, has described how the phone number change makes it necessary to change one or two settings in Internet Explorer, the program most customers use to access the Internet.

"Currently, your system is set to dial 678-5465," the message from NuZ tech support said. "Now, you must add the area code (706). The following instructions should allow you to make the necessary changes to your system:"

1. Open Internet Explorer

2. When it asks to Connect, Click on Work Offline

3. Click on the word Tools in the menu bar

4. Select Internet Options

5. Click on the Tab CONNECTIONS

6. Double Click on your connection Icon under Dial up and Virtual Private Networks

7. Next to the Username click on the Properties Button

8. In the phone number field add the Area code (706) directly before the phone number already listed. Do not add it in the Area Code field.

9. Ensure that your Use Dialing Rules or Dial Area Code is NOT selected.

10. Select OK

11. Close all open windows and retry to connect to the Internet. You should now see the entire 10 digit phone number (706-678-5465) in the dial field.

Nu-Z.net customers using a browser other than Internet Explorer can call technical support at 706678-5454.

The change in area codes does not affect the internet connection of the city of Washington's high-speed wireless system, the city's computer wizard Ken Davis said, nor should it affect a DSL connection in most cases.