How to Connect Multiple DSL Connections to a Computer

Connecting multiple DSL lines to a computer can seem like a daunting task but it is easier to do than you may think.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• DSL Service
• DSL Router
• Ethernet/Network/CAT5 Cables

1. DSL Modem The first thing you want to do is make sure you have DSL service running on your phone line. Secondly, you should already have the DSL modem that plugs into the phone line, and then into your computer. An example of what a modem may look like is shown on the left.
2. Linksys Router Secondly, you will need what is called a router. A router is a piece of machinery that basically splits up the DSL from the modem so that you can "feed" it to as many other computers as you want. There is a limit to how many computers can run off of one router however. An example of what a router may look like is shown on the left. There are many brands to choose from, however it is best to stick with ones like Linksys, D-Link or NetGear. Sales associates at your local electronics store can point you to what you need. (Note: You will also need CAT5, also called ethernet/network cables, for EACH computer you plan to add DSL service to. You will need to find the correct length to reach from your router to each computer.)
3. This shows a basic idea of what everything should look like on the reverse side of the router. Now comes the tricky part... plugging it all in. The image on the left shows you the reverse side of what most routers should look like. There is a place to plug your modem into it, places to plug in a few computers into it (usually four), and a place for the power for the router. Now this step makes perfect sense if you pay attention. First, you want to feed the DSL service (from your modem) into the router. So you will take the modem (which should already be plugged into power and the phone line) and plug the ethernet/network/CAT5 (thick cable) into the spot on the router which reads something like "WAN", "Internet" or "Modem" depending on the brand. To make it easy, it is usually the most left area on the reverse side of the router. Basically what you have done here is you have "fed" the DSL service into the router. Now it is the routers job to "feed" it into your computer(s).
4. Ethernet/Network/CAT5 Cable Finally we can plug the computers in to the router. An average router has four "feeds" in which it can send DSL service to other computers in the house/office. Using your already bought cables (example of what they look like on the left), plug in one end to one of the open ports on the router, and the other end into the computer you wish to give internet access to. This should be the last step... the DSL service should now be running to the computer. Just repeat this last step and plug in as many computers you want using a new cable each time (obviously limited by the amount of ports your router has).

Tips & Warnings

• Network cables/Routers are all available at electronic stores.
• Make sure you measure how far your router will be from the computer(s) it is going to be sharing DSL with as the network cables will need to reach that far.
• Most routers have four ports (meaning up to four computers can share the internet service) but you can spend a little more and get a router with a larger sharing capability.
• Remember, the modem plugs into your router, which in turn plugs into your computer(s)