URBAN NETWORKING

Make DSL Setup Easy

by Roger Barnette

There are two main hurdles to starting DSL service. The first is the wiring/connection outside your location and the second is the wiring/connection within your location.

Handling the outside your walls challenge is all about one word - relationship. Choose an ISP that you trust and whose customer service is excellent. When you establish service you get the DSL equivalent of a dialtone, but when things go wrong, it's all about customer service.

I most strongly recommend Bellsouth here in Atlanta, because their customer service is excellent, 24/7 service hours, and they also are the folks that operate the central office (or CO) that the DSL runs to.

http://www.bellsouth.net

If you are a Mindspring/Earthlink customer take heart. They are pretty good too, but slightly less accessible.

The key phrase in ordering the service is, "External Ethernet DSL Modem". This will afford you maximum flexibilty when setting it all up within your wall.

Your internal configuration is straight forward to the modem they will send you. You place filters on all the phone lines in the house EXCEPT for the one that will take the DSL signal into the house. Then attach the DSL modem to that line. The modem's signal light will blink until the DSL circuit is verified, then it will shine solid.

From the modem to the rest of your network will vary greatly according to your needs. If we can help make the transition easier, please call or email us.