Abstract: Several techniques for reducing the amount of time between initiation of a terminal request through a dial-up telephone line and the actual initiation of transactions between the terminal and a host computer. By using a ring down or hotline circuit configuration dialing and call setup time can be saved. By using cut through techniques to gain direct access to the IXC switch, time can also be saved over conventional techniques. With the ring down use or cut through procedures no login procedure is necessary to ensure secure access to the host computer. The ring generation period is shortened to just an interval sufficient to allow the host modem to recognize the ring, with the ring indication period also begin shortened. The modems can be set to fixed baud rates, but in a more preferred embodiment the terminal modem transmits the originate carrier prior to the host modem picking up the line. The host modem then senses the originate carrier quickly and provides the proper answer carrier.