AOL was once called Quantum Computer Services. The company used that name from 1985 to 1991, before adopting America Online and eventually becoming widely known as AOL.
Quantum Computer Services was founded in 1985 by Jim Kimsey from the remnants of Control Video Corporation. Its early online service was Quantum Link, usually shortened to Q-Link, which connected users of Commodore 64 and 128 computers to games, chat, messaging, and other online features. Steve Case, who later became CEO, helped develop the company’s consumer-focused strategy.
The company expanded with services such as AppleLink Personal Edition and PC Link. After its relationship with Apple ended in 1989, Quantum changed its consumer service branding to America Online. The AOL name became dominant during the 1990s as millions of households used its dial-up internet service and distinctive software discs.
A common mix-up is confusing Quantum Computer Services with Quantum Link. Quantum Computer Services was the company; Quantum Link was one of its major online services. AOL later merged with Time Warner in 2001, creating AOL Time Warner, although the AOL brand continued afterward.