How to Self-Install an AT&T DSL Modem
AT&T DSL Internet is one of several inexpensive and reliable wireless Internet service providers. When you sign up for this service, you will receive a DSL Internet self-installation kit. This kit is fairly simple to install, but it requires some basic computer knowledge. You must also have a network interface card (NIC) to install DSL Internet service using an Ethernet cable. If you don't have an NIC yet, you can install one in an expansion slot or attach your DSL Internet modem using a USB 2.0 cable.
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Instructions
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Ensure that your AT&T DSL Internet self-installation kit is complete. At minimum, it should contain a DSL Internet modem, an AC adapter, an Ethernet cable, a telephone cable, several telephone filters and an installation CD.
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Install the telephone filters on each telephone jack that you have a phone plugged into. Install a dual phone adapter on the jack closest to your computer if you have an answering or fax machine, telephone or analog modem in the same room. Then plug your telephone equipment into the filters. Connect the telephone cable that was provided with your installation kit into an unfiltered telephone jack.
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Insert the installation CD into your CD-ROM drive. If the installation program does not start automatically, click Start > Run > and browse to the CD-ROM drive directory to find the installation file.
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Connect the telephone cable that is attached to the unfiltered wall jack to the back of the DSL Internet modem. Connect the Ethernet cable to the back of the modem and to the Ethernet network interface card port on the back of your computer. Connect the AC adapter to the back of the modem and plug it into an electrical outlet. Power the modem on.
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Check the modem lights. There should be at least two lights lit. These will have labels such as "Power" and "Ethernet." However, these labels may differ depending on the model of modem you received in your installation kit.
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Complete the software installation. Enter your chosen username and password when prompted. Check your modem to see if the light labeled "DSL" or "Internet" is lit. Open a web browser window to see if your DSL Internet service has been successfully installed.
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Tips & Warnings
Ensure that your computer meets AT&T's minimum system requirements for DSL service before you sign up for the service.
If you plan to connect to DSL service by USB, specifically ask AT&T for a modem with a USB port.
To see if it has a network interface card, click Start > Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System. Click the "Hardware" tab and then click "Device Manager." Click the plus sign beside "Network Adapters" to see what devices you have installed.
If you experience any difficulties installing you AT&T DSL service, contact their technical support department promptly. They will walk you through the steps of solving your problem.
If you buy DSL service from a local provider make sure you read reviews and check out the company's background.
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- Photo Credit DSL Modem Detail image by Rob Hill from Fotolia.com
