How Does House Wiring Work for DSL?

About DSL

DSL (digital subscriber line) Internet connections are a common type of broadband Internet connection. Unlike a dial-up Internet connection, DSL allows users to access the Internet and make telephone calls simultaneously. DSL connections do this by using only a portion of the existing house wiring that is already in place for telephone connections.

Segmenting the Existing Phone Line

DSL divides the existing copper wiring being used for a phone line into segments by frequency. This allows the line to be used for both phone calls and an Internet connection at the same time. The Internet data is carried over the higher frequency ranges of the line, while telephone calls are carried over the lower frequency portions of the line. One drawback to this arrangement is the "noise" that bleeds over between the frequencies. This can cause difficulties with the quality of both connections, unless filters are installed.

DSL Filter Installation

DSL filters are installed on every phone line that is not connected to the DSL Modem. They prevent the noise and static on the phone line that will occur without filtering. DSL filters also improve the quality of the DSL connection by removing voice traffic from the Internet data flowing on the line. Without the filter, a DSL connection is prone to lower transmission speeds and frequent disconnection from the Internet.

Conclusion

DSL Internet connections are a high-speed alternative to dial-up connections that do not require any additional wiring or cables to be installed. This type of connection uses existing copper wiring and allocates separate portions of the phone line to Internet and voice traffic. This separation allows the user to use the wiring for both Internet access and telephone calls, although DSL filters are necessary in order to ensure the high quality of both connections.