Can I Use My DSL Modem on Any Line in the House?

DSL Internet should work on secondary telephone extensions.

If you have multiple telephone extensions connected to your incoming phone line, you will usually be able to connect your DSL (digital subscriber line) modem to an extension of your choice. There are some technical considerations you need to be aware of.

Background

DSL Internet connections are activated on a specific telephone line. Telephone lines in houses are often split into several extensions, and these should all carry the DSL Internet signal.

If, however, you have multiple incoming lines with different telephone numbers associated with them, you can only connect your DSL modem to the line that has been activated for ADSL.

Consideration

ADSL microfilters divide the incoming voice and data signals on your telephone line. A microfilter should be connected to every telephone extension on your Internet-enabled phone line.

Recommendations

Using a distant phone extension for your ADSL modem may result in reduced bandwidth performance, so using an online speed test is recommended to check performance if you do move your modem.

Internet service providers often only guarantee their connection will work on the main line into your property, so if you have connection problems, they may not provide support unless the modem is connected to that extension.

References

• Cisco: Using POTS Splitters and Microfilters in a DSL Environment